What makes a learning space inspiring? Is it the people, the atmosphere, the interior design, the furniture, the resources? At Civic Academia, we believe it is a harmonious balance of each factor that creates the inspirational learning spaces that the young adults of 2016 are coming to enjoy.
As the quote above suggests, a learning space that ‘Involves’ the student is the most productive method in which to ‘learn’. A collaborative environment that involves both teachers & students sharing thoughts, opinions, knowledge & ideas allows learning to flourish & grow, far better than a teacher-directed environment. In a teacher-directed environment, the creativity is limited to the imagination & knowledge of the teacher. In a collaborative classroom you achieve an even balance of teacher & student input which quickens the pace of learning & promotes effective communication on all levels.
We have created a list of factors that contribute to an Inpsiring Learning Space. Whether your looking at a new build or a classroom refurbishment, you’re sure to use some of the ideas listed below.
1. REMOVE ANYTHING THAT DOES NOT INSPIRE LEARNING:
Apart from the practical (rubbish bins – you can even make these blend in) & WHS equipment, its time to remove anything that clutters the space & does not inspire learning. Simple. Studies have proved that removing the unnecessary (the rubbish) there is an increased time on task & improved test results.
2. MOBILISE THE FURNITURE (Where possible):
By mobilising the furniture you can quickly & easily transform the space from didactic teaching to collaborative groups in less than a minute. Everything possible needs to be on wheels! Furniture with a multi-use are also great – such as ottomans with USB ports or filing cabinets that double as a bench seat.
3. TECHNOLOGY & RESOURCES:
With all the technology available to schools today, there can be no reason why you wouldn’t in today’s modern classroom. From large plasma screens to small hand-held tablets & other devices, use technology to provide an innovative learning experience.
4. INJECTING COLOUR:
Studies have shown that the effect of colour as a first impression in a classroom is powerful. It affects the mood & it communicates messages. For example, greens & blues are calming where as red & yellow are motivtional & inspire action. Complimentary colours work well in a classroom & make a space inspiring. Make use of our in-house interior design service to enliven your space.
5. SIT & STAND DESKS:
An adjustable height desk that can be deployed as a sit-down mechanism or stand-at mechanism. This multi-task use is great for focused individual learning & informal stand-up small group discussion. Ask us about the Savvy Desk HERE.
6.STOOLS:
Stools are used to stimulate a good mix of standing & sitting. By achieveing this balance, you are adding to the engagement of the leg muscles in active learners allowing them to focus.
7. WHITEBOARDS:
The modern-day slate that can be drawn up just as quoickly as it can be cleaned. Great for planning & collaboration the whiteboard allows students to freely brainstorm ideas while finalising the plan at their desk.
8. LAYOUT:
An important factor that can make or break an inpsiring learning space, no matter how colourful it is. The layout needs to promote both small collaboration, large group discussion, teacher consultation & promote exploration & initiative. At Civic Australia, we call it the Mode 3 approach. Read more about the Mode: 3 approach HERE.
We would be interested to hear how you created an Inspiring Learning Space.
If you would like to share it with us, please CLICK HERE.
PH: 1800 22 88 77
E: enquiries@civicaustralia.com.au
