Flex the Physical Environment

An ideal physical learning environment is, most importantly, flexible in function and form.  So, furnishings should be able to be moved around and reconfigured easily, work surfaces would be variable for different needs (stand-up desks, walkstations, exercise balls for seating, etc.), and wireless computer access would make cords less of a hindrance. Even teachers who desire to flex learning spaces are hampered by the heaviness and bulk of desk/chair combinations and the fixed nature of some technology.

Temperment and Learning

Many factors go into motivation and engagement, and one of the reasons, in my mind, that extrinsic rewards get so much attention is because developing intrinsic motivation is a complicated business, affected by many factors.  The idea that having a sunnier disposition enables one to persevere in tasks, perform at a higher level, and expect good results can be appealing.  Even this one factor--positive affect--is complex:  Which comes first, success or positive affect?; Can smiling itself affect a-ffect?; Is it true what mom used to say that acting happy when you are feeling sad helps you overcome difficult situations?; Is disposition teachable?  It seems like there is room in the research to affirm all of these, and yet there is the corollary to engagement that a healthy dose of fear has its benefits too.  Motivation and engagement is a fascinating, complicated business.