1.3  Providing a supportive environment for learning

Students each bring their own past experiences, which have shaped their perception and attitude towards both learning and assessment. It is worth keeping in mind that previous learning experiences may have been negative for some of your students. To overcome the fear of failure, students need a supportive environment to take risks in their learning and to make mistakes, to question and to challenge, to ‘have a say’. This is helped by an atmosphere of ‘unconditional positive regard’ towards your students, one that is non-judgemental and accepting.