Casey Speed

FS 3663.01
10/21/15
Classroom Design Reflection
Description of the classroom:
I designed my dream classroom for a second grade class in a word document using
shapes and text boxes. The Classroom includes: individual desks arranged in groups of four (to
encourage collaboration), a dry erase board/ projector screen at the front of the room (for
instruction), a document camera by the teachers desk (for instruction/to share work), a big
bulletin board on the side of the room to display completed work and posters (examples and
encouragement), a reading center with a bookshelf and beanbags (a comfy setting for both group
and individual reading time), a game center with board games and card games (for free time and
indoor recess), a math center with manipulatives and other math supplies, a science center with
science supplies, a big rug to sit on (when working in the centers), a technology lab/ tutoring
center with a class set of IPads, work trays (to turn in completed work and pick up worksheets
for free time), art supplies, a Helpers Chart with responsibilities listed, a mini fridge by the
teachers desk (for snack time and lunches). I also included a big window at the back of the class
to let in natural light and give students a view of outside. As well as a window in between the
technology lab and the classroom so I can keep an eye on other students while having one on one
sessions. I want my actual classroom to be bright and inviting with a lot of room for activities. I
want to encourage cooperation, play and responsibility.

What I learned and how it represents best practice:

First I learned that there is only so much stuff that you can fit in one room. I had to
prioritize which things I thought would be the most helpful and which things I could do without.
I realized that I needed to take into consideration what my students would need in their
classroom not just what I would like to have. I also remembered the importance of play and
made many stations for opportunities to explore. As well as learn to take a little bit of
responsibility for their own learning. I tried to include important aspects like that into my
classroom design. Now I have a game plan for the ideal way I would set up my classroom and I
plan to take this knowledge with me and do as much as I can to make my classroom the best
learning environment possible.
Questions I still have:
I dont really have any questions about this assignment.
References:
Miles Gordon, A., & Williams Browne, K. (2014). History of Early Childhood Education. In
Beginnings and Beyond: Foundations in Early Childhood Education (9th edition).
Belmont, California: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.