When students are having fun in the classroom, they are engaged in learning. This engagement increases learning outcomes because students are more likely to take risks, participate, and retain the information.

Although a quiet classroom is needed at times so students are able to concentrate and work independently, many studies show that long-term learning involves activity.  The active classroom where students are out of their seats, working in groups, and talking to others not only makes learning fun, but it also engages them in multiple intelligences.

Make it Relevant

When lessons are overly abstract or difficult, students can become bored, distracted, or frustrated, which prevents learning. Instead, teachers who create lessons where students understand why they need to know this material and can see the relevance in the lesson bolster learning outcomes. Simply using material that interests students will help engage them in the lesson. For example, a math problem could center on how students might purchase a new iPhone or video game. A grammar lesson can include sentences about celebrities or the latest app. Reading stories about diverse people and topics not only interests students but also promotes a multicultural classroom. Teachers who utilize topics that connect with students will pique their interests and create an environment of engagement.

Make Connections

A positive classroom environment encourages learning and bolsters students’ participation. Creating this uplifting environment can begin by helping students make connections to prior learning. When beginning a new concept, it is best to begin by capturing students’ attention with a KWL. Find out what students already know about the topic, and then find out what else they want to know about the topic. So if you are beginning a unit about the Declaration of Independence, students might share that they know it occurred on July 4th, 1776, but they might want to know who wrote it or what it says. After teaching the unit, students can then share what they learned. A simple KWL at the beginning of a new unit of study helps students make connections to prior learning which ultimately makes the learning more engaging and relevant.

Think, Pair, Share is another strategy that helps students make connections. The teacher can begin a new unit of study by asking a question and providing time for students to think about possible responses. Students individually brainstorm ideas. Once the thinking time is over, they can discuss their ideas with a partner. This pairing allows students to talk out their ideas. Since it is only a discussion with one other student, the activity is low stakes, so students do not feel the pressure of answering in front of the entire class. After they have had an opportunity to discuss, students are more willing to share their responses with the class. This teaching strategy helps students connect with their classmates as well as the topic.

A Community of Learners

Students do not want to learn in isolation. They attend school with their peers, so teachers should use this as an advantage by creating a community where students thrive on learning together and being a part of the team. Incorporating small group activities in the school day helps students learn collaboration skills, and it gives them a break from some of the tedious lessons that require intense concentration.

While working in small groups, students can get involved in some competitive fun. At the end of a unit, students may review material with a game of Jeopardy or Kahoot. Students not only review the information, but they also learn to help their team win. Prizes can be bonus points, candy, or just the knowledge that they won. It is more about creating an atmosphere where students are learning how to collaborate for a common goal. And, when students do not win, they learn how to console each other and congratulate the winning team.

In a community of learners, students also engage in traditions and routines unique only to them.  Teachers may begin the morning with pointing out the day of the week and the weather forecast. Eventually, a student can take over this daily task. Other routines can be established such as allowing students the opportunity to learn a new dance or earn free time on Fridays. Or, the teacher can regularly allow students an opportunity to color, draw, or even garden. These types of activities, when done together, encourage bonds between classmates. Also, once routines become the expectation, students begin to feel less stressed and anxious and can show their true personalities. When children share their true selves, the classroom becomes a safe environment for all.

Encourage Different Intelligences

Each child has many gifts to offer others in the classroom. Some students work best when asked to write a paragraph, while others may be able to show what they learned through a song. When asking students to show their knowledge, let them have choices in how they show what they’ve learned. Most will choose to show you in ways they are most comfortable, and that is okay. Once you’ve established a strong relationship, you can encourage other ways for students to demonstrate their learning.

Creating a fun and interactive learning environment only requires some planning and creativity. Once you get to know your students, you’ll have a better idea of the types of activities that work best for them. When learning is fun and active for students, they retain more information and are more likely to remember what they’ve learned for a longer period of time. And, when you see your students enjoying themselves while learning, it is very rewarding because you know you are making a difference in their lives.