In the last few decades, classroom design has changed a lot. Classrooms used to be those rigid, uniformed places of discipline and teacher-centred learning. However, times have changed, so modern classrooms are embracing flexibility, technology and fun so the students can learn in a comfortable, safe and sound environment. So what are the new trends in classroom design you can adopt for your school?
Catering to all learning styles
Every student is different and every student has a different style of learning that works for them. While some kids thrive in busy environments that encourage active learning in groups, others prefer to learn alone and in peace. Classrooms that cater to all learning styles are a miracle of the 21st century since they combine exploration and collaboration with peaceful learning.
How can you cater to different students in one space? Every classroom can be differentiated into zones that permit students to work alone or in groups while encouraging varied learning approaches. This type of design also encourages children’s autonomy so they can learn at their own pace and in their preferred space (more about that later). In a classroom like this, kids can explore how they learn best and manage their education.
Technology as a teaching tool
Old-school teachers think that smartphones and laptops are disruptive in a place of learning, modern classrooms are designed to accommodate all kinds of technology for all kinds of teaching tasks, learning methods and student needs. Many 2021 classrooms are equipped with computer desks and ergonomic chairs that allow easy and safe use of technology in class.
These tech-savvy classrooms also have integrated technology like multiple projectors and digital whiteboards that allow easy presentation, note sharing and note downloading. Technology allows educators to make their class richer in content with digital textbooks, unique quizzes, podcasts, online lectures and more. Luckily, educational technology doesn’t require new buildings, but old ones can easily be retrofitted to meet today’s tech demands.
Modular classrooms
With new requirements sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic, every school is in need of extra space so it can respect distancing rules and provide the best comfort and safety to students. However, schools need extra space right now, which means the only solution is modular classrooms. If you choose experienced builders of modern modular classrooms, you can have a finished building in as little as 90 days! These modular schools/classrooms come with all necessary amenities, specialty rooms, outdoor areas and lunch areas.
Universal design
The best classroom design involves spaces that can be used by all students in their entirety. The universal design focuses on equitable use, flexibility, intuitiveness, simplicity, proper sizing and plenty of space for all—it makes the classroom accessible for every student. It promotes a learning-centered environment that removes all barriers, offers free access to all elements and creates a positive instructional climate.
For instance, if a classroom has 30 desks, why not experiment with universal design and do a few layout changes? For instance, with modular furniture, a teacher can create one row of six desks, two clusters of six desks and one long “boardroom style” setup of twelve desks. This setup allows kids to work alone, in groups, sit facing each other or get privacy—all that while providing them with a choice on where to be at any given time. With a complete agency, educators are providing students with power and responsibility which is great for their development.
Biophilic design
More and more educational spaces are focusing on green construction trends. Thanks to biophilic design, students will have more open-air spaces, better flow between the indoor and outdoor environment and better contact and relationship with nature. Schools that follow trends are all introducing spacious courtyards that allow students to hang out, laboratories with floor-to-ceiling windows, classrooms that open into the yard without effort and many more. Biophilia also includes bringing the outside in, so modern classrooms are filled with hypoallergenic plants that purify the air, photos of nature that calm the mind and interesting natural materials that spark interest.
Maximum cleanliness
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, air quality and cleanliness will be a huge consideration in the classroom as well. Coronavirus thrives in environments with many humans, so better HVACs, air quality monitors and air fresheners will have a high-importance role in keeping students, teachers and workers healthy. When it comes to furniture, manufacturers will focus on easy-to-disinfect surfaces and more personalised workspaces.
Due to many new discoveries in the world of education, kids today have interesting trends to look forward to in their classrooms. Hopefully, better flexibility, access to technology, biophilia and maximum cleanliness will make every student feel safe, inspired and ready to learn.
