In recent blog posts, we have argued that learning environments must change in order to support more active and engaging learning.
As you’re rethinking the design of your learning environments, here are six elements that should be part of any modern learning space.
Choice
When students get to choose where and how they’ll work, they become more engaged and inspired. Offer them lots of choices in colors, seating styles, and working environments — and you’ll see engagement soar.
Comfort
It’s not a secret that students learn best when they’re comfortable. Create a learning environment that combines ergonomic furniture, maximum-efficiency lighting, and optimal air quality and temperature, and watch their achievement take off.
Versatility
Today’s learning environments must be able to support a wide range of teaching methods, learning activities, and student needs. Choosing flexible, movable furniture that can serve a variety of purposes allows you to do this effectively.
Connection
Education is primarily a social activity, and learning environments should be designed to facilitate interaction between students, their teacher, and their peers. Create spaces that don’t just allow but actively encourage collaboration, such as by using mobile, agile desks and tables that can easily be arranged into flexible group sizes.
Stimulation
Learning spaces should be designed in a way that’s stimulating and engaging for students. There should be creative design elements and materials that encourage thinking and exploration, as well as opportunities for students to move around: Studies show a clear connection between movement and achievement.
Technology
Learning environments should support a school or district’s vision for using technology to advance instruction. K-12 leaders should think about what technologies will be used within the space and what infrastructure these will require, including electrical outlets and connectivity ports. Students should be able to learn (and recharge) from anywhere in the room.
To learn more about each of these six elements and why it’s important, download our FREE guide: “6 Essential Elements of a Modern Learning Environment.”
Download the Free Guide
Christina Counts, PhD
Dr. Christina Counts is a proven leader with a successful background in transforming learning spaces. Dr. Counts has worked in education for over 17 years with experience as a classroom teacher, district instructional leader, school administrator, and digital and innovative learning designer. As the Director of Design and Development for School Specialty, Christina leads a team of professionals that not only offer complete turnkey modernization solutions for schools, but also design and deliver professional development to support districts making the transition to a flexible, collaborative, student-centered learning space.
Read more by Dr. Christina Counts–>
