Handbook by layHunter

we love designing spaces where students learn

BROCHURE & HANDBOOK

2019

letter from the president

table of contents

WELCOME TO AQUEST DESIGN’S 2020 BROCHURE AND HANDBOOK.

TIMELINE OF EDUCATIONAL CHANGE

THEORY OF MOVEMENT

Serving the educational innovators of Quebec and Ontario since 1991, education is our passion. We love learning. We love designing spaces where students learn. We love learning from the teachers and educators with whom we share this passion. I’d like to think of this brochure as a place to share the great ideas we learn from the great people who are working so hard to enable leadership in a new generation of young people.v The furniture you’ll find in this book has all been developed with the student and teacher in mind. Many years of research along with modern learning methods and best practices have completely changed what we bring you today. I hope you enjoy the ideas throughout this book. These are some of the best tips we have learnt.

Glenn Fossey

PRESIDENT AQ U E ST D E S I G N

Hokki Stool Jumper Chair Pantomove Chair Pantoswing Chair Recommendations THE FLEXIBLE CLASSROOM Shift+ n Action The Thumbprint Teacher Freedom Tools Shift+ Transfer Wall Storage A dditional Tools In The Flexible Classroom O ther Flexible Tables Options

08 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 24 26 28

TRADITIONAL DESKING: UNO-M AND UNO-BEAN

CREATING MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPACES

STAND-UP AND FLOOR LEARNERS

THE SCIENCE LAB AND MAKERSPACE

LEARNING COMMONS: THE NEW LIBRARY AND CAFETERIA

DESIGNING 21ST CENTURY SCHOOLS OUR KEY LEARNINGS

R O YA L S T. G E O R G E ' S C O L L E G E

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

letter from the president

table of contents

WELCOME TO AQUEST DESIGN’S 2020 BROCHURE AND HANDBOOK.

TIMELINE OF EDUCATIONAL CHANGE

THEORY OF MOVEMENT

Glenn Fossey PRESIDENT AQ U E ST D E S I G N

08 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 24 26 28

TRADITIONAL DESKING: UNO-M AND UNO-BEAN

CREATING MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPACES

STAND-UP AND FLOOR LEARNERS

THE SCIENCE LAB AND MAKERSPACE

LEARNING COMMONS: THE NEW LIBRARY AND CAFETERIA

DESIGNING 21ST CENTURY SCHOOLS OUR KEY LEARNINGS

R O YA L S T. G E O R G E ' S C O L L E G E

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

timeline

“The industrial revolution model of education was actually very successful. It churned out carbon-copy mentalities at a time when society prized conformity. As we start to prize creativity instead, we need to look at how creativity can be fostered, and developed, and encouraged. There are technical, and physical aspects to that, but also emotional and values-based ones.”

O F E D U C AT I O N A L C H A N G E

M I C H A E L WA L D I N , B M D

1970’s

MISS EDGAR’S AND MISS CRAMPS SCHOOL

1940’s

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E A R LY 1 9 0 0 S C H O O L D E S I G N / T E AC H I N G M E T H O DS

MID-LATE 1900 SCHOOL DESIGN/ TEACHING METHODS

Reflecting automated roles at the time, teaching was performed in the same way with educational reformers prescribing straight rows of desks. These rooms were standardized, utilitarian spaces designed to house as many students as possible.

Thought leaders were beginning to recognize the benefits of air, light and outdoor learning, and it was during this time that many schools were designed to maximize light and outdoor facilities. However, study was still largely textbook-centered with the teacher as the main ‘holder of knowledge’, placed at the front of the room.

2 1 ST C E N T U R Y S C H O O L D E S I G N / TEACHING METHODS In 2008, the book entitled ‘The Third Teacher’ helped change the view on the importance of the classroom environment. In addition, with rapid changes in technology, schools were beginning to understand that students no longer needed to be trained for a specific career, but rather educators needed to develop minds that could take on positions and challenges that had never been seen before. Over the past decade, we have noticed a progression in the school revolution and through implementation of new teaching styles, curriculum, and active environments which focus on student-centered learning MISS EDGAR’S AND MISS CRAMPS SCHOOL

today

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

timeline

O F E D U C AT I O N A L C H A N G E

M I C H A E L WA L D I N , B M D

1970’s

MISS EDGAR’S AND MISS CRAMPS SCHOOL

1940’s

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E A R LY 1 9 0 0 S C H O O L D E S I G N / T E AC H I N G M E T H O DS

MID-LATE 1900 SCHOOL DESIGN/ TEACHING METHODS

today

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

theory of movement

“Watching a child makes it obvious that the development of his mind comes through his movements.” MARIA MONTESSORI

OV E RV I E W O N

Dr. Dieter Breithecker A kinetic scientist and health & movement expert, Dr. Dieter Breithecker runs the German Federal Institute for the Development of Movement and Posture. The results of his research show the necessity of regular changes in posture and furniture which facilitates spontaneous movement and muscular contractions in improving circulation and blood flow to the brain. He states, “The body knows what it needs, on a most basic level, and responds accordingly. For example, when someone stands freely without assistance, they will unconsciously move by shifting from side-to-side on their feet, move the pelvis to maintain posture and tilt their shoulders back.” He encourages that this need for movement be integrated into the modern classroom with furniture that promotes spontaneous movement and muscular contractions. Even small movements, like simple fidgeting, improve results.

“We underestimate how much they’re learning when they’re sitting upside down. Students need choice in their environment. They can be very focused and engaged despite what position they may be in.” DR. MARY MOSS-BROWN, CO - F O U N D E R O F T H E N YC I S C H O O L

P R I N C I PA L : B O DY I N M O V E M E N T Math test scores

Reading test scores

55.5

54.5

53.5

52.5

51.5

Week 1

Week 8

Week 1

Sensomotoric stimulation No stimulation

Week 8

Make peace with fidgeting

Dr. Breithecker

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P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

theory of movement

“Watching a child makes it obvious that the development of his mind comes through his movements.” MARIA MONTESSORI

OV E RV I E W O N

P R I N C I PA L : B O DY I N M O V E M E N T Math test scores

Reading test scores

55.5

54.5

53.5

52.5

51.5

Week 1

Week 8

Week 1

Sensomotoric stimulation No stimulation

Week 8

Make peace with fidgeting

Dr. Breithecker

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P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

hokki stool

The Hokki stool supports dynamic sitting and gives students the ability to move while working. This movement helps to improve individual focus and concentration. The lightweight, easy to carry stool is available in a variety of sizes, accommodating small children, adults and everyone in between. The base is made of thermoplastic and works with all types of flooring.

SA I N T E-A N N E AC A D E M Y

“The chairs are beneficial in many ways, they provided students with undisruptive movement, allowing students to engage in concepts development and throughout tasks. I use them with my small group work within my Resource room and have assigned the stools to classrooms to assist teachers with class management. I would gladly recommend the study stools as a valuable resource.” C A R I N A D E E R E , R E S O U R C E T E AC H E R

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hokki stool

SA I N T E-A N N E AC A D E M Y

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jumper air chair swivel to attention

The newly designed Jumper chair provides exceptional movement and flexiblity in the plastic seat shell and the frame that isn’t available with any other model. Providing ample, controlled linear movement for students, this agile chair is available in many options - active, cantilever or the move and move-plus - a chair that truly responds to the student's requirement of movement while learning. Designed by Jean Nouvel, the JUMPER is the first school chair to be awarded Cradle to Cradle certificaton in Silver for sustainable materials and safety for people and the environment.

A N I N V I TAT I O N T O M O V E : The positive effects of physical activity on students: immediate and long-term benefits.

A 40% improvement in academic results 15%of students are more likely to go to College CANTILEVER

AC T I V E reduction in the risk for heart disease, A stroke, cancer and diabetes A 10% reduction in the risk of obesity

MOVE The ‘Jumper Air Move model comes with casters and the option for a 3-d rocking mechanis

“In reality, the human body demands constant position changes and movement to remain physically and mentally healthy...”

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M O V E PL U S

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

jumper air chair swivel to attention

A N I N V I TAT I O N T O M O V E : The positive effects of physical activity on students: immediate and long-term benefits.

A 40% improvement in academic results 15%of students are more likely to go to College CANTILEVER

AC T I V E reduction in the risk for heart disease, A stroke, cancer and diabetes A 10% reduction in the risk of obesity

MOVE The ‘Jumper Air Move model comes with casters and the option for a 3-d rocking mechanis

“In reality, the human body demands constant position changes and movement to remain physically and mentally healthy...”

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M O V E PL U S

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

panto-move chairs

“The Pantomove chair provides constant movement through space in small increments, giving the brain a continuous background of data for alertness and focus. The support of the chair adjusts the posture in a natural and comfortable way, activating the core muscles without strain.” K I M B A R T H E L , V I C T O R I A , B . C , O C C U PAT I O N A L T H E R A P I S T

C H A N G E O F E N V I R O N M E N T = C H A N G E I N B E H AV I O R

PANTO-MOVE

When an environment encourages and promotes movement while learning, students expend the right amount of energy. When an environment is made up of traditional seating, the space rejects the physical reality of the students by limiting their movements. By creating spaces that change the physical behaviour, we are doing our students a service; physically, intellectually and physiologically.

The panto-move chair comes with casters and is available in sizes for all ages of student. It's unique characterisics include 3-D movement in the mechanism supporting the seat shell providing the user with controled, consistent movement to improve concentration and respond to the body's natural requirements to move. The plastic seat is a double-walled textured polypropylene shell which offers a slight flexibility. The seat is also available in natural beech or upholstered. Other options available on this chair include a foot ring and chair suspension for storing on the table.

“Movement is a basic human need, like eating, drinking and sleeping.”

S T- M A U R I C E C O L L E G E

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P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

panto-move chairs

C H A N G E O F E N V I R O N M E N T = C H A N G E I N B E H AV I O R

PANTO-MOVE

“Movement is a basic human need, like eating, drinking and sleeping.”

S T- M A U R I C E C O L L E G E

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panto-swing chair

the recommendation: S T U D E N T S S H O U L D N O T S P E N D T H E E N T I R E D AY S I T T I N G , B U T R AT H E R A S   F O L L O W S :

30% standing

The panto-swing chair with it’s unique frame provides a light linear movement. This chair is available in 6 sizes and the plastic shell has a double-walled textured polypropylene surface. This are available optionally with chair suspension for storing on the table and in a natural beech shell.

standing at desks

50% sitting dynamic sitting on flexible chairs

20% movement teaching methods like active learning, learning in motion and breaks that involve walking

S TA N I S L A S C O L L E G E

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panto-swing chair

the recommendation: S T U D E N T S S H O U L D N O T S P E N D T H E E N T I R E D AY S I T T I N G , B U T R AT H E R A S   F O L L O W S :

30% standing

standing at desks

50% sitting dynamic sitting on flexible chairs

20% movement teaching methods like active learning, learning in motion and breaks that involve walking

S TA N I S L A S C O L L E G E

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P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

the flexible classroom

“A learning space that can be reconfigured on a dime will engage different kinds of learners and teachers”

shift+ I N AC T I O N Shift+ was created out of necessity. We realized we were at a crossroads generated by the inherent need to harness a dynamic shifting of educational delivery and instructional models implemented as well as demanded within our facilities. We knew we needed to institute more freedom by the creation of a new idea in educational furniture design. We needed a holistic solution that was complex but at the same time simplistic.

“To me, it is about recognizing that there is a much richer conception of intelligence and ability available to us than is promoted by conventional education.” SIR KEN ROBINSON, I N T E R N AT I O N A L A D V I S O R O N E D U C AT I O N

Flexibility today is about providing students with diversity and choice. It is a student-focused approach to teaching – we have a variety of heights, different seating options, different desk configurations, allowing students to find their learning and social space and giving educators the necessary tools to help students thrive.

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THE SHIFT+ CONCEPT Lightweight, mobile, furniture for simple rearranging. The Shift+ system provides a set of tools and components to facilitate the flexibility required in today’s classrooms.

Our goal is to allow the end users to begin with a blank canvas by selecting a set of tools that respond to their specific learning and teaching strategies at a precise point in time.

The concept behind Shift+ is to reduce the quantity of furniture in the classroom, make every piece flexible and multifuctional in view of facilitating all teaching styles and providing more space.

KERANNA INSTITUT

“The true purpose of education is to make minds, not careers.” WILLIAM DERESIEWICZ, LITERARY CRITIC

David A. Stubbs II

D E S I G N E D S H I F T + AS D I R E C TO R O F FA C I L I T I E S AT AT H E N S C O U N T Y S C H O O L B OA R D, G EO R G I A .

“if you are going to change your culture, you must first change your environment.” David A. Stubbs II

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

the flexible classroom

“A learning space that can be reconfigured on a dime will engage different kinds of learners and teachers”

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THE SHIFT+ CONCEPT Lightweight, mobile, furniture for simple rearranging. The Shift+ system provides a set of tools and components to facilitate the flexibility required in today’s classrooms.

Our goal is to allow the end users to begin with a blank canvas by selecting a set of tools that respond to their specific learning and teaching strategies at a precise point in time.

The concept behind Shift+ is to reduce the quantity of furniture in the classroom, make every piece flexible and multifuctional in view of facilitating all teaching styles and providing more space.

KERANNA INSTITUT

“The true purpose of education is to make minds, not careers.” WILLIAM DERESIEWICZ, LITERARY CRITIC

David A. Stubbs II

D E S I G N E D S H I F T + AS D I R E C TO R O F FA C I L I T I E S AT AT H E N S C O U N T Y S C H O O L B OA R D, G EO R G I A .

“if you are going to change your culture, you must first change your environment.” David A. Stubbs II

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

the thumbprint table SHIFT+ TOOLS

OV E RV I E W O N T H U M B P R I N T

THE PINWHEEL

A key player in the Shift+ series, the Thumbprint table comes in two organic shapes, convex and concave. These lightweight tables include two

This layout is simple to configure and the most flexible grouping to know. With hokki stools or standing it can attract up to 10 students.

casters and are designed to be stacked and easily rearranged when needed. This table can be used as an individual desk as well as a small group table.

THE MEDICINE WHEEL

S T R AT E G I C C L A S S R O O M G R O U P I N G S 1 10

DISCUSSION LEARNING CIRCLE

10 thumbprints form a circle which is ideal for student-lead discussion-based learning. Keep closed or open one end for more teacher interaction. Other varieties include the medicine wheel or a U.N. style layout.

DISCUSSION CIRCLE W I T H T E AC H E R E N T R A N C E

We have observed there’s magic in this arrangement. Students who are leaders or ‘shoe shiners’ tend to take the closest in position, where they can interact freely with others. Students who tend to be ‘back-benchers’ prefer spots 1 and 6, where they can lean in to interact or lean back and observe the discussion. This grouping involves them in the discussion as opposed to traditional desk shapes which doesn't draw them into the

circle. 1 2 10

Trafalgar Castle School R A I S E T H E F LAG

THE OCTOPUS

A clean yet somewhat traditional style grouping that allows full desk space for 4 students and up to 6 when working in larger groups.

A collaborative setting that encourages proximity and collaboration between 4-5 students.

9 4

T H E U N I T E D N AT I O N S

THE KIDNEY

5 7 6

Great for guided reading and teacher support, without the permanence of traditional horseshoe tables.

T R A FA L G A R C A S T L E S C H O O L

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P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

the thumbprint table SHIFT+ TOOLS

OV E RV I E W O N T H U M B P R I N T

THE PINWHEEL

A key player in the Shift+ series, the Thumbprint table comes in two organic shapes, convex and concave. These lightweight tables include two

This layout is simple to configure and the most flexible grouping to know. With hokki stools or standing it can attract up to 10 students.

casters and are designed to be stacked and easily rearranged when needed. This table can be used as an individual desk as well as a small group table.

THE MEDICINE WHEEL

S T R AT E G I C C L A S S R O O M G R O U P I N G S 1 10

DISCUSSION LEARNING CIRCLE

DISCUSSION CIRCLE W I T H T E AC H E R E N T R A N C E

circle. 1 2 10

Trafalgar Castle School R A I S E T H E F LAG

THE OCTOPUS

A clean yet somewhat traditional style grouping that allows full desk space for 4 students and up to 6 when working in larger groups.

A collaborative setting that encourages proximity and collaboration between 4-5 students.

9 4

T H E U N I T E D N AT I O N S

THE KIDNEY

5 7 6

Great for guided reading and teacher support, without the permanence of traditional horseshoe tables.

T R A FA L G A R C A S T L E S C H O O L

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teacher freedom tools S H I F T + I N T E R A C T, S H I F T + T R A N S F E R T E A C H 7 C’ S O F E F F EC T I V E T E AC H I N G Caring about the students Captivating students Conferring with students Controlling behavior Clarifying lessons Challenging students Consolidating knowledge

The free-form shapes of the shift+ system encourage the teacher to move in a natural way through the classroom and allows them to explore different pedagogy and teaching styles. The Interact table empowers the teacher to move away from the front of the class. Studies using sensor monitors demonstrate that when square desks are placed in straight

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rows, the teacher tends to move back and forth at the front of the class and rarely ventures up the center aisle. Within one day of providing the teachers with Shift+ curved classroom furniture, the same teacher moves through the desks in a figure 8 movement, circulating constantly among the students.

“The world no longer cares what you know. The world cares about what you can do with what you know.” T O N Y WA G N E R

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

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“The world no longer cares what you know. The world cares about what you can do with what you know.” T O N Y WA G N E R

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

shift+ transfer

“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”

STO R AG E U N I TS

ALBERT EINSTEIN

S O C R AT I C L E A R N I N G

T H E S H I F T + M O B I L E STO R AG E U N I TS

Socratic learning involves the teacher and students learning together through posing questions, problems or scenarios. This contrasts traditional education which generally relies on the teacher presenting facts about a subject. The Shift+ curved storage units can be combined with soft seating benches, the Thumbprint desks and floor seating to form a circular area. This area creates a dense concentration of students around the teacher who can interact at their level. By creating different heights and zones within the circle, each student can find a comfortable place to learn and interact with peers.

The Shift+ mobile storage units come in both straight and curved shapes. Doubling as both a classroom divider and reading nook when paired with the Landscape upholstered benches, this unique storage solution includes handles for easy manoeuvrability around the classroom and magnets for ganging of multiple units. When adding storage into a learning space, it may seem like we have created places for students to hide. With the new teacher freedom tools, the teacher is no longer confined to the front of the class and in turn, new areas are created for different learning and working styles.

R O YA L S A I N T G E O R G E ’ S C O L L E G E

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ECS SCHOOL

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

shift+ transfer

“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”

STO R AG E U N I TS

ALBERT EINSTEIN

S O C R AT I C L E A R N I N G

T H E S H I F T + M O B I L E STO R AG E U N I TS

R O YA L S A I N T G E O R G E ’ S C O L L E G E

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ECS SCHOOL

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

wall storage and other storage Storage in modern learning environment is crucial in supporting 21st century teaching styles with a combination of desks and tables that don’t provide individual storage for the students. Both fixed wall storage and mobile storage are available to fulfill this need.

Collège Charles-Lemoyne

“United in the conviction that the environment is our children’s third teacher, we can begin anew a vital mission: designing today’s schools for tomorrow’s world” T H E T H I R D T E AC H E R

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Collège Charles-Lemoyne

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additional tools for the flexible classroom F U S I O N , F U S I O N F L I P A N D B A S E S TAT I O N

The Fusion table is offered as both a fixed 4-leg version (as seen on the following page) or with the popular flip top. The curve of this organic-shaped table matches the curve of the other items in the Shift+ series.

Another complement to the Shift+ series is the Basestation table, which includes a freeform curve that allows it to be used nicely for both group work and focused computer work. A computer arm is available as an option.

A N T O I N E - D E - S A I N T- E X U P E R Y H I G H S C H O O L

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additional tools for the flexible classroom F U S I O N , F U S I O N F L I P A N D B A S E S TAT I O N

A N T O I N E - D E - S A I N T- E X U P E R Y H I G H S C H O O L

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puzzle and team tables “Most of today’s classrooms are designed with the teacher at the centre. But if the classroom is focused on the learner instead, then learning becomes paramount.” R I C K D E WA R

Fun and functional, the Puzzle table provides a touch-down space for group work and the ability to bring together multiple tables for larger group work. The Team table offers the same opportunity for group work. With the added benefit of being standing-height, it provides opportunity for an added dimension of focus and collaboration. The PantoMove Plus chair will often join the Team table and provides a perching point as it features

weight-activated locking casters. The chair encourages students to work standing up but offers the ability to sit comfortably when needed.

“Look at your learning space with 21st -century eyes: Does it work for what we know about learning today, or just for what we knew about learning in the past?” T H E T H I R D T E AC H E R

M O N T- S A I N T- L O U I S C O L L E G E

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weight-activated locking casters. The chair encourages students to work standing up but offers the ability to sit comfortably when needed.

“Look at your learning space with 21st -century eyes: Does it work for what we know about learning today, or just for what we knew about learning in the past?” T H E T H I R D T E AC H E R

M O N T- S A I N T- L O U I S C O L L E G E

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tri and triunion tables

“What we want to see is the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not the knowledge in pursuit of the child.” G E O R G E B E R N A R D S H AW

This series offers flexible triangular tables which can be used for independent work as well as small or large group work. Triunion is a standing-height table with two different height footrests to suit all students.

Designed for moblity, agility and adaptablity, the tri and triunion table series provides important health benefits to both teachers and students by changing environments into active, movement-rich spaces and reducing sedentary behavior.

“If we’re looking for new pedagogical practices, we have to have facilities that will enable those to happen. So, you want flexible spaces where people can group and re-group, where you’re not stuck in one configuration with teachers at the front.” SIR KEN ROBINSON

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tri and triunion tables

“What we want to see is the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not the knowledge in pursuit of the child.” G E O R G E B E R N A R D S H AW

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uno-m and uno-bean The Uno-M desk includes a more traditional rectangular top but is known for its robust and very durable construction.

From the same series, the UnoBean is a skid desk that includes a freeform top that can be used for both independent work as well as small or large group work.

“We are currently preparing students for jobs that don’t yet exist, using technologies that haven’t yet been invented, in order to solve problems, we don’t even know are problem yet.” COLLÈGE TRINITÉ 32

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change this name to: Collège Trinité

K A R L F I S C H , E D U C AT O R .

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

uno-m and uno-bean The Uno-M desk includes a more traditional rectangular top but is known for its robust and very durable construction.

From the same series, the UnoBean is a skid desk that includes a freeform top that can be used for both independent work as well as small or large group work.

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change this name to: Collège Trinité

K A R L F I S C H , E D U C AT O R .

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

creating multi-functional spaces

"If you create a system where inititive and creativity is valued and rewarded, then you'll get change from the bottom up."

M O B I L I T Y A N D D I V E R S I T Y I N T H E L E A R N I N G S PA C E

PA U L PA S T O R E K , S U P E R I N T E N D E N T

M A K I N G F L E X I B L E S PA C E S W O R K : Casters Power every where The learning environment is customized through the flexibility of the furniture. Classrooms must be alterable and have the ability to be quickly adapted for use by different groups with the aid of multifunctional and moveable furniture. The students and teachers must be able to carry out the new configurations with ease.

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“The most important requirement is variability— the environment is to be multifunctional.”

Flat floors Stacking furniture Flip-top tables Helen Hirsh Spence, Educational consultant: “Brain research is giving us great insights into how we can vary teaching methods to meet the need of different learning styles. Good lessons need exquisite design - so that teachers can stretch students in their dominant and preferred learning styles, and also in their non-dominant styles.

M O N T- S A I N T- L O U I S C O L L E G E

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

creating multi-functional spaces

"If you create a system where inititive and creativity is valued and rewarded, then you'll get change from the bottom up."

M O B I L I T Y A N D D I V E R S I T Y I N T H E L E A R N I N G S PA C E

PA U L PA S T O R E K , S U P E R I N T E N D E N T

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“The most important requirement is variability— the environment is to be multifunctional.”

M O N T- S A I N T- L O U I S C O L L E G E

P R O D U C T C ATA LO G

stand-up learners

floor learners

In every classroom you’ll find 2-6 students who learn better standing up. Providing learning opportunities where these students are comfortable is as important as the other parts of designing engaging learning spaces. A sit to stand desks provides by design, a standing-height option for those students who have this requirement to learn successfully.

Providing floor learning options give students more choice in their learning environment. It provides younger students who have less developed

peripheral vision vision to be more focused when

“We’re seeing that the implementation of sit-stand desks allows students to choose how they spend their time in the classroom. While some students gravitate naturally towards standing, others prefer to sit. The more comfortable students are, the more conducive the learning environment becomes.”

working on the floor and not distracted by others. Often these students will 'zone-in' and then stand up to 'zone-out' and take a more global look at what they're working on before they zone back in again. Fascinating! Watch them next time!

R YA N K I R K H A M , P R I N C I PA L , M A U I P R E PA R AT O R Y A C A D E M Y

A R E A S F O R R E T R E AT A N D R E L A X AT I O N Even at school, it is possible to feel at home. Whilst providing additional working areas in the classroom, it’s important to also use these spaces as leisure and time-out zones for quiet periods of relaxation and regeneration. These areas should be inviting which is why they often include child-friendly solutions such as soft seating and mats that allow children to perform their activities at floor level. It is important for students to enjoy periods of free time to the full and develop the desire for new challenges.

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stand-up learners

floor learners

Providing floor learning options give students more choice in their learning environment. It provides younger students who have less developed

peripheral vision vision to be more focused when

R YA N K I R K H A M , P R I N C I PA L , M A U I P R E PA R AT O R Y A C A D E M Y

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the science lab and makerspace THINK HANDS-ON

S C I E N C E C L A S S R O O M S F O R 2 1 ST C E N T U R Y T E A C H I N G In today's world of de-emphasis on hands-on experience, creativity and discovery, Science Labs and Makerspaces need to be revisited and updated as much as other learning spaces within the school. Providing spaces that accommodate the needs of 21st century both facilitates the teachers role and impacts students learning

“Education must shift from instruction to discovery—to probing and exploration…” M A R S H A L L M C L U H A N , E D U C AT O R A N D C O M M U N I C AT I O N S T H E O R I S T ( T H E M E D I U M I S T H E M ASSAG E )

"Student's need to be able to engage in iterative thinking, creative thinking, critical thinking. They need to know how to pivot, how to revise, how to persevere,. They need to solve complex problems. All of those are involved in the maker mindset. If you can embed making in the curriculum, then they're able to develop that maker mindset. The space is just the platform that facilitates it. John Spencer, University teacher and Coauthor of Empower" JOHN SPENCER, UNIVERSITY TEACHER

Joan of Arc Academy HERZLIAH HIGH SCHOOL

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the science lab and makerspace THINK HANDS-ON

Joan of Arc Academy HERZLIAH HIGH SCHOOL

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learning commons: THE NEW LIBRARY AND CAFETERIA

“If we truly believe that creativity is an essential ingredient in a child’s development, then we need to shift completely away from the ‘cells and bells’ model of school design. So the other fundamental question we should be asking is: Does this learning environment support a child’s natural instinct to learn through creation and discovery?” TRUNG LE

THE LIBRARY An instructional space used by many, the library must be able to accommodate an endless variety of work zones for students. The furniture must be mobile to support the many different ways students work – doing research, silent reading or working with their peers. Flexibility is key.

A N T O I N E - D E - S A I N T- E X U P É R Y H I G H S C H O O L

Students and teachers learn to share spaces, to be exposed to other projects, ideas and modes of inquiry. Isolation is minimized and innovation is encouraged. The learning commons spaces provide a variety of zones to accommodate the needs of all students, from the learner who wants to read quietly to the active, collaborative groups who want to work with their peers. KEY ZONES REQUIRED IN THE LEARNING COMMONS: Individual work Semi-collaborative (small teams of 2-3) COLLÈGE DE MONTRÉAL

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Collaborative (large group work)

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learning commons: THE NEW LIBRARY AND CAFETERIA

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Collaborative (large group work)

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THE CAFETERIA As traditional teaching evolves, so should facilities. The traditional cafeteria is no more. Students need to be in a space where they can have collaborative interaction and active learning opportunities. The cafeteria is a great space where learning and creativity can flow. Maximize this space by including

bursts of colour - known to evoke creativity, and an abundance of natural light - an important factor in optimizing student focus and wellbeing. Open and airy spaces are where students can gather with their friends, study or meet with teachers. This is the 21st century norm. C I TOY E N CO L L E G E

“If you really want to shift a culture, it's two things: it's habits and it's habitats - the habits of mind, and the physical environment in which people operate.” SIR KEN ROBINSON

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“If you really want to shift a culture, it's two things: it's habits and it's habitats - the habits of mind, and the physical environment in which people operate.” SIR KEN ROBINSON

C I TOY E N CO L L E G E

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we love designing spaces where students learn 1 0 8 G U N AV E N U E , POINTE-CLAIRE, QUEBEC, H9R 3X3 1-800-344-8341 W W W. A Q U E S T D E S I G N . C A 592 5 A I R P O RT R OA D, S U I T E 2 0 0, MISSISSAUGA, ON L4V 1W1 1-800-344-8341 W W W. A Q U E S T D E S I G N . C A

Handbook

Articles inside

Pantomove Chair

Recommendations

Pantoswing Chair

Shift+ Transfer

Hokki Stool

Wall Storage

In The Flexible Classroom