I’m not trying to turn my classroom into a lounge or a living room, but at the same time I want students to feel comfortable in that space. I have to spend a lot of time there, too … so I want to feel comfortable also.

And I’m glad you brought the word “pedagogical” into this. Not everything in my room is designed to have a “teaching purpose,” yet I do want everything to contribute to learning. I strongly believe that a “pleasing” environment does contribute to learning. In that sense, then, everything is pedagogical.

It seems like common sense to me: classrooms should be comfortable places–designed to support learning, yes, but also just comfortable. Students have to spend a lot of time in this room with me (90 minute periods, 2 to 3 times a week), so why shouldn’t we try to enjoy it? I don’t think “comfort” and “conduciveness to learning” are mutually exclusive.

So, artwork and posters, water and mints, air cushions, couches, plants, etc. have no defined pedagogical purpose, but they make the direct pedagogy easier to swallow.

One quick example: I keep Koosh balls in the classroom. We use them sometimes to regulate discussions (pedagogy). But I do have a few kids who genuinely need something to “fiddle” with in order to stay focused, and Koosh balls work well because they make very little noise (not-so-much pedagogy). Sometimes we just toss it around before or at the end of class … because it’s FUN, dammit (no pedagogy at all … but then again, I don’t want “my classroom” and “fun” to be mutually exclusive terms, either.)

In all things … balance.

I enjoyed the graphics you used as well as the idea of what you’re aiming for as you continue to improve.

You didn’t mention much about the pedagogical value of what you have in your classroom (e.g. wordwalls). I liked this, because I don’t do a lot of pedagogical usage of my walls but do spend time simply decorating. I felt vindicated. I try to make my room more comfy than simply a learning tool. This year I bought fabric that looks like water and put it on several walls… Very relaxing effect (at least for me), but I still have far to go. I’m torn between whether my room should be used for curricular stuff or making kids feel comfortable. I’d appreciate hearing any thoughts you have on that.