Instructors have more control over the learning environment in their classroom than they might guess. Research says that when students feel a sense of belonging in a classroom, and sense that their instructor is invested in their success as learners, they are more likely to attend class, participate in discussions, and engage in learning activities. Importantly, there is also a great deal of reciprocal synergy between the use of active learning strategies and the cultivation of an effective and engaging classroom environment. In this workshop, participants will explore concrete strategies that instructors can use to shape a learning environment that promotes student motivation, intellectual focus, and a sense of belonging.