Hi, By the learning environment I mean all aspects of the educational setting. You are correct about making sure that the students feel comfortable. They have to know you care and that you are there to encourage and support them. In return they have to apply themselves in order to succeed. Yes, for many of them this may be the last stop on the career selection/preparation pathway. I have taught in some pretty poor physical settings, but the students knew I and other staff members cared about them and that we were there for them. This caring aspect overcame any short comings that the physical plant might have had. Gary