Physical Environment

The physical environment can impact on how students learn. Inappropriate learning environments can create barriers to learning (for example, a noisy classroom can impede both concentration and ability to hear the lecturer). Good physical environments can aid student learning. An inclusive learning environment is accessible to all students, pleasant to work in, and appropriate for the teaching and learning methodologies used.

Guidelines for Inclusive Teaching Environments:

General Accessibility:

Ensure all students can physically access your teaching and administrative spaces.
Ensure there is space to manoeuvre around classes and offices with a wheelchair. Consider the width of the doorway.
Consider whether the current set up would mean a wheelchair user would be excluded from a class discussion because they are unable sit with their peers.
Use the Accessibility Checker to evaluate the accessibility of College buildings.

Classroom Environment

Ensure you can hear, and be heard, clearly by all. Ask students for feedback.
Ensure suitable lighting. Can all your students see you and any teaching props you may use.
Position boards videos and screens where they can be viewed in comfort by all.
When using new rooms use IT Services Facilities page, which includes information on classroom equipment and lighting.

Timetabling

Ensure timetabling gives all students sufficient time to move between teaching venues. Remember, some students, particularly those with certain disabilities or health problems, will take longer to travel between lectures than others.

Video Tutorial (length: 2m 20s): Is the classroom equipment sufficient to meet your needs?

Equipment and Furniture

Self-Evaluation

Take time to complete a brief self-evaluation of your:

Physical Environment (5 questions)