Environmental Learning
Preferences

Sound - Learner preference for silence versus 'white noise' or background music. Learners who prefer sound are better able to concentrate when white noise or music cover up unexpected noises. Learners who prefer silence are distracted by any noises and do best studying in quiet environments with few or no distractions.

Light - Learner preferences for bright light versus dim or filtered light; florescent, incandescent, or natural light. Consider different learning locations based upon lighting preferences. Options may include at a kitchen table with lights on, with light from outside windows, by a bedroom or living room window, outside under a tree, at a desk with artificial light, etc.

Temperature - Learner preference for warm versus cool temperatures. For some learners, cool temperatures help keep them alert, while other learners find cool temperatures distracting--their mind is on being 'cold' rather than on studying. For some learners warm temperatures help concentration, while others find warmer temperatures lulling them to sleep. Use small ceramic disc heaters for warmth, or small fans for coolness, near learners who might prefer learning temperatures that differ from the overall learning environment.

Seating - Learners may prefer a big comfy chair, an office chair at a desk, on the floor, lying on a bed, curling up in a corner of the sofa, at a kitchen or dining room table, etc. Learners learn best if they are comfortably situated. Use of a consistent location can help a learner focus more quickly and concentrate longer on their learning tasks.