Who Thought of Ambience?

As we discussed the four components of classroom management are:
*managing classroom ambience
*managing physical space
*managing resources
*managing time
I've been aware of space, resources and time in relation to the classroom but never appreciated the full scope of ambience. Our book tells us that our goal as a teacher-manager is to start with students and blend a group of individuals without common ground or goals into a classroom community. (Kohn) Our textbook further challenges us to inspire our class to "think in the plural." We strive to achieve a class where students feel connected to each other; "they" are part of an "us." With the diverse dynamics involved in today's classroom this ideal is especially paramount to our approach.
As a teacher "trapped in a substitute's body" (Adam) I still don't have a good sense of what my class ambience should be. I want to foster a stimulating environment in which students will interact and take risks but I also must manage the behavior in the classroom. Our quote this week reinforces ambience. It is "teachers provide a social and intellectual environment in which students can learn." (James MacGregor Burns)
Two positive ambience examples that we reviewed in class were first,to have students write positive comments about each other and compile a list for each student of the comments from their classmates. And second, to encourage "put ups." "Put ups" are letters of thanks to classmates who have helped other classmates during the week. (NEA site, Works 4 Me)
And finally, we must realize that "the ambience of the class communicates your stance toward education without you saying a word." (textbook, pg. 214)