CONSIDERATIONS
Concerns regarding the feasibility behind transforming traditional learning spaces.
WHO IS THE AUDIENCE?
Teachers
Flexible working environments will enable teachers to utilize spaces in an efficient and effective manner.
Innovative spaces that incorporate elements such as writable walls means that teachers will be able to explain ideas on the board where each student can access them, compared to traditional designs where a students view may be obstructed depending on where they are seated.
Movable furniture gives teachers the opportunity to assemble groups to work collaboratively, yet at the same time enable teachers to separate students if need be.
WHO IS THE AUDIENCE?
Students
From the perspective of a student, the integration of alternative seating and innovative elements in a comfortable setting would personally enhance my education.
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Being comfortable in a space is essential to my learning. If I was in a space where the furniture was movable this would mean I could easily converse with fellow peers, working together to formulate critical thinking and solutions. Additionally, being in a surrounding that is bright and uplifting has a positive influence on my mental health.
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To read more about space design and the impact it has on individuals, please visit Home and Evidence.
FUNDING FLEXIBLE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
Building brand new spaces are not always an option, so incorporating elements in a cost-effective manner to create flexible spaces is essential.
Teachers must be resourceful in finding ways to integrate innovative and collaborative elements into their classrooms, as the option of building a space from scratch is not always feasible.
There are many cost-effective furniture available for teachers to incorporate in their classrooms, and budget friendly ways to improve a space such as paint or crafts made by students to add visual stimulants to a room. On the other hand, there are many alternatives that do not require funding such as refurbishing existing furniture, receiving donations, applying for grants or picking up furniture people are giving away at no cost.
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Another factor to keep in mind is that redesign will only go so far regarding students' engagement and motivation to learn. District tech coordinator for the Affton School District in Missour Manuel Herrea stresses that it is also vital to change how students learn
We can’t just change the way a classroom looks and expect that to be a part of student learning. We really have to change the way we teach if we want them [students] to change the way they learn.
HOW DOES TRANSFORMING LEARNING SPACES ADDRESS MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES AMONG YOUTH?
My project directly addresses this problem as being situated in an uncomfortable and poor environment negatively impacts ones mental health.
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Personally, I know that being in a room that is bright and open tremendously changes my mood. Compared to sitting in a classroom that is enclosed, dark and cold, an inviting space enables me to thrive.
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I truly believe that when individuals feel comfortable and at ease they have a better opportunity to succeed, as the distraction of feeling uncomfortable is eliminated.
HOW DOES THIS PROJECT ADDRESSÂ TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASS?
In today’s technologically advanced world, information is more easily accessible than ever before. According to educator Garfield Gini-Newman in his TEDx talk, schools are at a crossroads because facts taught to students are now available at their fingertips through inventions such as smart phones and laptops. This renders the traditional component of schooling where teachers simply retell information moot.
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Thus, utilizing modern day technology in the classroom varies from traditional textbook teaching methods. Integrating technology into a learning space provides innovative opportunities to use materials not typically associated with formalist schools.
HOW DOES THIS PROJECT ADDRESS STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AS A REASON TO REFORM SPACES?
Personally, I know that when I am situated in an environment that is not welcoming it increases my irritability and takes away from my concentration. Rather than concentrating on the material in front of me, I find myself distracted by drafty and poor air circulation or preoccupied by the fact that I am unable to move my desk to a location where I can better see the board.
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Aside from furniture and design impacting my education, the integration of technology and innovative elements increases interest as I am able to relate and learn through a hands on approach.
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As a result of technology in a space and the methodical design of a room, engagement is enhanced when an individual is not distracted by feelings associated with being uncomfortable.