In the tutorials the tutors create a positive learning environment through a number of methods and on two levels: the emotional-mental and the physical one.

L2 in particular uses language to make students feel valued and comfortable. She regularly acknowledges (Class 1: Tutorial 29/10/2015) and praises the work they have done (e.g. Class 1: Tutorial 29/10/2015) and finds herself in a dilemma “if they’re presenting the wrong information” (Interview with L2). Instead of shaming them by saying that they are wrong, she tries to stop them nicely and make them understand (Interview with L2). When a student has problems holding her presentation, she “tries to reassure her” (Class 1: Tutorial 03/09/2015) and support her (e.g. Class 1: Tutorial 03/09/2015). She also uses positive language and turns mistakes into something positive by saying “I also have learning experiences” (Class 1: Tutorial 29/10/2015).

In addition to creating a mentally positive learning environment, L2 and L3 both also stress the importance of an enjoyable physical environment. Thus, they would both prefer learning outside (Interview with L2 & Interview with L3). S2 praises the atmosphere of the Institute as a place when saying:

“I think you walk in there and it really is a cultural place and you could pretty much approach anybody and that would be ok. And the way they have barbecues and the way they have all that free food that you and I are too afraid to go down (from upstairs). Cause that’s so different. From you and I and what we’re used to” (Interview with S2)

The extent to which the learning environment is influenced by ideas such relationships, peer feeling, sharing and fun becomes envident through L2’s description of her classes as “a group of people coming together and sharing some information and having a joke” (Interview with L2).

For a full list of quotes relating to a positive learning environment, please click here.

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