The influence of classroom settings and classroom management on year 5 children’s attitudes to learning

Abstract

The focus of this study is to examine what factors affect the children’s attitudes towards learning. It also reviews which classroom layouts are popular with the teachers, vis-ᾴ-vis what the children’s favourite classroom layouts are, in relation with their behaviour and their attitudes towards learning. Essentially, the aim of the study is to examine the main factors that affect the children’s attitudes towards learning; and the best seating arrangements that promote positive behaviour and attitudes towards learning. In order to attempt to answer these research questions, the researcher used three research methods: two case studies in a State and a Church School, questionnaires administered to Year 5 children and interviews conducted to the teachers concerned. It can be concluded that children’s attitudes towards learning can be affected by many factors. Most prominently: parents/guardians attitudes towards schools; teachers’ attitudes towards teaching and his/her expectations of the children; the physical environment; the classroom management strategies used; and the seating arrangements. With regards to the best seating arrangements that promote positive attitudes towards learning, the research revealed that there are no right or wrong seating arrangements. The teacher must set the classroom according to the needs of the pupils; keeping in mind to change the classroom layout frequently to keep the children engaged in learning.