Physical spaces
are central to creating a new paradigm for learning.
What might these
physical spaces include or what might they look like?
What Are Learning Spaces?
What does the term learning space mean? Why not use classroom instead? As recently as a decade ago, classrooms were the primary locus for learning in higher education. Other spaces included the library, the faculty office (for individual mentoring), and perhaps the café in town. But classrooms were by far the single most important space for learning.
Since then, a great deal has changed. The World Wide Web has emerged as the primary way most people use the Internet. The Web has spawned a wealth of new, network-based applications, from digital music stores to new venues for scholarly publishing. Indeed, the availability of network access, in one form or another, is today almost taken for granted. Handheld devices have acquired a growing set of functions, providing a telephone, a digital camera, and an operating system running a variety of applications. Laptop prices have declined while increasing in functionality—to the point that their use exceeds that of desktops for most students.
In parallel with these developments in IT, an entire generation of learners has grown up using computers and other networked devices. While for previous generations IT was a kind of exotic overlay or an optional tool, for the Net Generation student IT is essential. It is clear that IT and Net Gen students have had a mutually influential—almost symbiotic—relationship. The characteristics of Net Gen students mesh very closely with IT and IT's increasing mobility, its 24 x 7 availability, and its increasing value as a communications tool. Net Gen students are social and team oriented, comfortable with multitasking, and generally positive in their outlook, and have a hands-on, "let's build it" approach—all encouraged by the IT resources at their disposal. Net Gen students have embraced IT, using it in ways both intended and unforeseen by programmers. Their rapid and enthusiastic adoption of IT has in turn influenced its development, particularly with respect to Web-based services.
1. Learning
spaces should be comfortable. A new, yet simple, idea is that classrooms can be
comfortable spaces where students feel at home. They might crawl up and read a
book. Heppell proposes that we see few people reading in chairs outside of
school, so it may be best to make cozy spaces in the classroom too.
2. A changing
space with mood lighting. Lights with different colors might, according to some
research, create a fresh perspective. Just like in any environment, change
allows for a mental break and lighting can do a great deal to alter a space
depending on the activity. As an adaptation, I have seen some classroom
teachers bring in lamps from home to create softer lighting during reading
times.
3. Allow
different seating patterns and configurations. A variety of different furniture
would allow students to work in different areas, depending on the project or
time of day. Heppell’s daughter teaches at Stepping Stones, which adapts
learning space for children with disabilities.
4. Create Playful
spaces. Bring the fun back into learning! Play helps teams work together
effectively and creates meaningful learning engagement. Heppell mentions how
Google gives employees space to be playful and play acts as a “powerful
motivator” for learning.
5. Notions of
Time – Different ways of structuring time might be beneficial, instead of
traditional scenarios with rigid schedules.
Teachers might look at immersion in one subject at a time. Time lost moving students around the school
might be minimized by using technology.
6. Encourage
community involvement. Learning is a community effort. The philosophy that “it
takes a village” to teach a child, resonates in that online communities can be
used to support learning. Social media
can be used to foster a sense of collaboration. The physical space of the
school should also allow for other adults to participate in classrooms.
7. Shoeless
learning. Yes, shoeless learning spaces. Accordingto Heppell, in Scandinavia
and other countries children often learn with shoes off, perhaps because it
reminds them of home and creates a relaxed learning environment.
8. Bring the
outdoors in. Some model classrooms have allowed an indoor/outdoor space that
becomes an extension of classroom learning. Spaces might include a door that
rolls back or time to learn outside.
Some studies have even found that teaching outdoors might improve
grades.
9. Multipurpose
spaces. Spaces that lend themselves to a variety of learning styles and
activities are best. For instance, there
might be an area for presentations, performances, or cooperative groups.
10. Bright spaces
with plenty of light and air. For Ingenium, students preferred spaces that were
colorful and special vents controlled air flow.
For instance, if it started to rain, ceiling vents would close
automatically. Teachers might inexpensively replicate this by bringing in a fan
or being aware of the temperature of the room.
11. Technology
accessibility. Classrooms that have a variety of media allow for different
learning activities and might include a projector, a white board, digital
cameras, laptops, satellite TV, video production, and even iPad accessibility.
12. Toilet
accessibility. Believe it or not, according to Heppell some research suggests
children try to avoid using the toilet during the school day. Having a bathroom
attached to the classroom might be a way to increase concentration and help
health as well.
13. Designing for
a space where students bring portable technology. Some experts argue that the
PC will soon become obsolete to cell phones and laptops. In “Learning
Environments of the Future”, Heppell parallels the example of calculators and
ballpoint pens that were once banned in schools and are now encouraged as
learning tools. Heppell believes that smartphones may the most powerful
learning tool of all, as they allow for collaboration and are inexpensive.
14. Spaces that
foster creativity, rather than productivity. Traditional spaces designed in the
industrial revolution were designed to maximize efficiency. For the 21st
century, employers tend to look for teams that work organically in
collaborative groups to solve problems. It would make sense to structure
classrooms to reflect the needs of our global economy.
15. Tiered
seating areas. Tiered areas allow for groups to convene to discuss ideas and
communicate procedures. These areas are
especially helpful in classrooms that employ groups regularly. They allow for a
space for group instruction or presentations. The speaker can maintain eye
contact and a steady volume, rather than projecting their voice. Tiered seating
creates an intimate, small group discussion format. Similarly, “cozy” carpet would work well for
younger children.
16. Storage areas
such as cubbies and shelves. Organization is a key component of successful
learning environments. A de-cluttered learning environment is free from distractions
and allows the focus to be on learning. Students can move quickly through the
space and easily access resources needed for various learning purposes.
17. Design for
different learning needs. Rather than rows of computers facing a wall, schools
can use cheap piping to conceal wires and face computers in different
configurations. Layouts should adapt to
the learning, rather than limiting the learner. Classrooms should be designed
to allow accommodation for varied learning styles and learning disabilities. I remember taking a student with Autism to
recess and being afraid of him hurting himself outside. Special foam recess
areas using recycled tires, for example, might allow his time outside to be
free while adapting to his safety needs.
18. Signage and
displays. Small details, such as wall displays are important. For example,
signage in the classroom should try to stay away from the negative. Lists of
rules with DO NOT drink, eat or talk, can send a bad message. Instead, signs
might include positive reinforcement. In addition, student displays can include
a description of the thought process behind the work.
19. Virtual
spaces. Online mediums such as skype and virtual portfolios, can be included as
part of learing. Heppell argues that the future of education will turn to
virtual formats.
20. Cloud
Technologies. A recent article in Business Today discusses that LG has
partnered with Microsoft & KIE (Kenya Institute of Education) to launch a
model classroom that incorporates new cloud technology. The aim is to lower the
cost of IT in schools. Cloud allows multiple users to share one main computer
using Windows MultiPoint Server 2011.
Generation Y
wants their learning to be playful and exciting. Classrooms should be spaces that students
don’t want to leave. Some communities
are still hesitant about these futuristic looking learning spaces and have
resorted to older, traditional physical spaces.
Hopefully, they
will begin to embrace changes to better prepare students and move them in the
21st century global economy.
