Reflection on Session 4

Dr Quek went through the slides on assessing classroom learning environment with us. The objectives are to discover what to assess in the learning environment, to evaluate the learning environment, and to examine a case study. Generally there are 3 approaches to evaluate the learning environment (LE) i.e. invite trained observers, use ethnographic and naturalistic inquiry methods, and obtain teachers’ and students’ perceptions. However, the common approach used is obtaining perceptions from teachers and students as this involves lower or no cost and resources are readily available. What interests me is the brief history of the research on learning environment where I found out that research on this topic has already started in the 1930s which is 70 years ago which involves famous researchers such as Lewin, Murray, Walberg and Moo. We also went through a list of instruments used in the LE research, the components in the WIHIC questionnaire, and a hands-on activity on the use of WIHIC for our individual write-up assignment. In addition, we also went through a sample assignment where mistakes are pointed out to us so that we will not make the same mistakes in our assignment. Overall, it was a fruitful lesson where I can start trying to write my assignment now.