Orientation to Secondary Teaching

Module 3 Application
Submit at the end of Module 5.
Understanding the Learning Environment Classroom Management

While it is possible to learn many things about teaching through readings and listening to
lectures, there is no substitute for personal observation when it comes to understanding what
daily life in the classroom really looks like. To best appreciate what an effective learning
environment looks like, you must experience it and reflect on all of the elements that combine to
make it work for both teacher and students.

For this application assignment, you will conduct a 2 hour, on-site observation in a secondary
classroom paying particular attention to how the teacher you observe shapes the classroom
learning environment and manages student behavior. You will also begin compiling an
electronic field journal which you will use throughout your program.

Course Objectives
Describe and evaluate effective learning environments.
Identify and construct strategies to manage student behavior and promote
positive classroom engagement.
Use objective observation to conduct research and to gather and analyze
data in field experiences.

Directions:
For the next two weeks, you will conduct 2-hour, on-site observations in a secondary
classroom. During this first observation, you will begin an electronic field journal which you will
maintain throughout your program. Module 3s observation will be the first entry in your journal,
and Module 4s observation will be the second. You will submit both your Module 3 and Module
4 observations in the Module 5 assignment. No assignment submission is due in Module 3 or
Module 4.
In Module 3, you have learned about the classroom environment and managing student
behavior. During your classroom observation, observe and record answers to the following:
Describe the classroom in which you are completing the observation. Grade level?
Content area(s)? Diversity of student population? Instructional style of teacher?
How is the layout of the classroom utilized to meet students needs?
What changes would you make?
Describe the behavior management strategies used in this classroom for the group and
individuals. Are the strategies effective or ineffective? What observations support your
appraisal?
Record other observations that are appropriate to the topics of classroom environment
and managing student behavior.

2016 American College of Education 1

Orientation to Secondary Teaching

1) Save and print the Module 3 Application PDF.

2) For your assignment submission, set up an electronic field journal as a
Word or text document. Use 12-point Arial or Times New Roman font.
3) Compose an introduction and conclusion for each field journal entry.
4) Use APA (6th edition) format for the references page and in-text citations.
5) You will submit both the Module 3 and Module 4 field journal entries in
Module 5.

2016 American College of Education 2