Creating a Classroom Where Students Thrive: 4 Simple, Research-Based Tips

As a teacher, I’ve found that while every class is different, there are a few strategies that always help my students thrive. They’re not magic, but they are backed by research—and they’ve transformed the way I approach my classroom. If you’re looking for ways to create a positive and productive learning environment, these tips are a great place to start.

1. Prioritize Emotional Safety

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that students need to feel emotionally safe before they can fully engage in learning. According to research in social-emotional learning (SEL), students perform better academically when their emotional needs are met. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) found that students in schools with SEL programs show an 11% gain in academic achievement.

How to do this:

• Create an inclusive classroom where every student feels valued. Make it clear that all voices matter.
• Use active listening. When a student shares something, show you’re listening by making eye contact and responding thoughtfully.
• Model empathy. Share your own experiences with emotions and how you handle them, so students know it’s okay to feel a range of emotions.

2. Get Students Talking (And Listening!)

Student discussion can be one of the most powerful tools in the classroom. When students talk about their thinking, they internalize content better. Research from the Journal of Educational Psychology shows that peer discussion leads to deeper understanding and improved retention.

How to do this:

• Incorporate think-pair-share activities, where students first think independently, then discuss with a partner, and finally share with the class.
• Pose open-ended questions that encourage students to think critically and discuss ideas in groups.
• Use discussion protocols, such as “Socratic Seminars,” where students take turns sharing their views and listening to their peers.

3. Differentiate Instruction to Meet Students Where They Are

One of the most challenging aspects of teaching is recognizing that not all students learn the same way. Some may need more time, some may thrive with visual aids, and others might need a hands-on approach. Research on differentiated instruction shows that when teachers tailor their methods to meet diverse needs, student engagement and success increase.

How to do this:

• Offer different ways for students to demonstrate understanding (writing, presentations, projects).
• Use formative assessments like exit tickets or quick check-ins to gauge where students are and adjust your teaching accordingly.
• Consider flexible grouping based on students’ strengths and areas for growth, allowing them to work with peers who challenge and support them.

4. Foster a Love of Learning by Giving Students Choice

When students feel a sense of ownership in their learning, they are more engaged and motivated. Research by the American Psychological Association shows that giving students choices in how they learn increases intrinsic motivation and leads to better outcomes. While we can’t let students run the show entirely, giving them small choices can make a big difference.

How to do this:

• Offer choices in assignments: “You can write a poem, create a short video, or build a model to show what you’ve learned.”
• Let students choose partners or groups for some activities.
• Build choice into reading time by creating a library of diverse, high-interest books and letting students pick what they want to read.

I’ve found that when I integrate these research-backed strategies into my teaching, the atmosphere in my classroom changes. It becomes a place where students feel supported, curious, and ready to learn. The best part is, these tips aren’t hard to implement—they’re small shifts that can have a big impact.

If you’re a teacher who’s tried any of these strategies (or others!), I’d love to hear what’s worked for you. We’re all learning from each other, after all!