Creating an Innovative and Conducive Classroom Environment

Structuring the Physical Environment Desk arrangements Student placement Classroom decoration Music in the classroom

The modification of the learning environment Consult widely with the staff, students, our community

and the architects Research the spaces necessary for effective learning

including:

- comfort

- furnishings

- color

- storage of resources including digital technology

- collaborative work

- self motivation/responsibility social interactions

Desk Arrangement

Desks in groups, with students facing each other, can help stimulate student discussion

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/

Desk Arrangement

Desks in single or double rows are good for demonstrations and independent work

Source: http://www.babble.com

source: http://www.hck12.net/kes/

Desk Arrangement

Desks in u-shapes are recommended where possible

Desk Arrangement

Desks in workstations are suited for students who have developed self management skills

Source: http://www.thevillageschool.com

Desk Arrangement

Remember, all seating arrangements should accommodate an inclusive learning environment

Foreman (1996) notes that some classrooms may require free and quiet spaces to facilitate learning

Student Placement

Place easily distracted students away from each other, doorways, windows and areas of high traffic

Preferably, place to one side of the classroom, close to the front

An inclusive classroom should place students in areas of the class best suited to their needs

Classroom Decoration

Students like to see their own work displayed, even in High Schools

Class-made posters help students develop a sense of belonging to the classroom

Plants and animals can have positive effects on the classroom (Nicholls, 2006)

Music in the Classroom

Music can be a great addition to any classroom– Use as reward– Create positive mood– Helps broaden musical experiences

In inclusive classroom music can:– Comfort/calm and help focus (some

students)

Remember, it is important to Designing with the children in mind. Visiting other schools to see other teachers

and environments in action is important. Design spaces around how it may be used

for example, not putting a passive area next to an active area, considering noise pollution, etc.

Not assuming that architects are educators.