Cultivating Creativity by Raquel

Cultivating Creativity by Raquel - October 2014 Scholarship Essay

Whether many admit it or not, in college most students tend to feel grumpy and tired in the morning from putting up an all nighter or for nightlife reasons. Many of the students enter the classroom daydreaming of the moment they will return to their warm, cozy beds to sleep. However, entering a cold classroom with barely any lighting at an 8 am is not the ideal room one would like to enter, especially for those that are not morning people. That mere fact ends up being a disadvantage to the students as it is to the professors. Why waste your time in a class to daydream when it is equivalent to sleeping in your bed at home? On the professors’ perspective, students sleeping in class and not paying attention are not a good result. I strongly believe that the classroom environment can change the attitude of learning among college students and students of all ages.

A classroom environment can change the attitude of the student tremendously. Many do not take lighting as a consideration; however, lighting can affect a student’s attitude in many ways. Entering a bright colorful classroom can change the student’s attitude in comparison to entering a very dark plain room, as lively colors will bring attention to the students regarding the topics taught in class. A classroom that has a lively vibe instantly cheers one up because of its color and lighting. Many may think that windows may be distracting to students. However, natural lighting from windows can only create a lively environment to students. Having nature surrounding you can only make learning more enjoyable and peaceful. A room with no windows often reminds students of prisons, which is not what one should be reminded of while in school. A room without walls makes us feel like we are imprisoned and forced to learn. One cannot learn if it’s an obligation, hence the windows inspire creativity and individuality in classrooms.

Although this may apply mostly for college, this concept can start in middle school and on. Desks tend to shrink and get smaller with the years, which is immensely uncomfortable and makes it difficult to take notes or even concentrate in class because of trying to find a comfortable position. My suggestion is for classrooms to have larger desks, similarly like in a science lab so that students have the necessary space for their supplies. In the long run, the desk would physically make most feel comfortable and prepared to learn. A desk should never be a distraction to learning. One wants to be able to have enough space to take notes, put our essentials, but most importantly feel comfortable and ready to retain information.

Other than materialistic essentials, I believe a professor contributes a lot to the classroom environment. I have been lucky to have amazing professors that make the classroom environment lively. The best professors or teachers are those that make education fun, while still teaching all the necessary information. At the same time, most efficient professors are able to encourage students to participate and stay on their toes for the entire classroom.

A classroom full of tired strangers is not as successful compared to a classroom in which everyone participates and has friendly relations with each student. If one feels like a stranger amongst their classmates, there is a limit of comfortable level, which can impact the educational success. Participation is vital, as it allows the students to have a voice. Also, students share opinions with fellow classmates and often start debates regarding the topic. That allows each to have a better understanding of the subject. The ideal classroom environment is filled with students who are actively participating, students who are eager to learn and make the classroom be an enjoyable place to learn.

I highly believe all of these suggestions are vital in creating the ideal classroom environment. The environment takes up a huge portion towards the educational success. If one in a comfortable and happy environment, it can only bring success towards your education.