Differences in Learning Environment Perceptions and Enjoyment Among College Students in South Florida

• In Event: Learning Environments in Postsecondary Settings

Abstract

Many factors in a classroom affect student outcomes. In recognition of this fact, this study was conceived to explore sex, age, and ethnic differences in learning environment perceptions and enjoyment in a South Florida college setting. The Constructivist Learning Environment Survey (CLES) and a modified version of the Enjoyment of Science Lessons scale of the Test of Science-Related Attitudes (TOSRA) were used to collect the data. It was revealed that females enjoyed their classes more than did males and that older students had a more positive perception of the classroom environment. There was no ethnic difference in perception or enjoyment. The findings suggest that males and younger students in the setting would welcome some pedagogic changes in their classrooms.

Authors

• Denton Patrick Tulloch, Miami Dade College

• Barry J. Fraser, Curtin University