Future Forward K-12 Facilities: A Design Toolkit K12 | LS3P
Balancing Tradition and Innovation: The Future of Classroom Design
Educators are charged with delivering high-quality instruction to help their students master not only the curriculum, but also the skills necessary to thrive in the modern era. The world in which we live is constantly evolving; in order to be effective, education must continue to evolve along with it. The variety of instructional methods and possibilities for implementation are both exciting and interrelated, and it can be challenging to choose the strategies that will work best for any given lesson, class, or student.
In exploring the future of education, LS3P has identified five major categories with a variety of implementation styles for consideration. These broad topics are applicable to a variety of age groups in diverse educational settings, and can be deployed for standalone lessons or across an entire curriculum. Tailoring instructional methods to each situation helps to engage students fully in the learning process and provides opportunities for differentiated, whole-student instruction.
Designing spaces for innovative learning begins with programming. Ideally, the design team will collaborate closely with administrators and teachers from the earliest stages of the process to determine how instructional goals will inform the physical space. Innovative ideas, new instructional methods, and new technologies will continue to evolve rapidly, but our buildings are meant to last for many decades. How do we design new learning spaces for flexibility and change? The design of a typical classroom has not changed much in the last centuryhow do we balance the longevity of our buildings with an as-yetunforeseen future? Designers, teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders must first analyze where we are, and work together to envision a path to where we want to be.
Five Key Learning Styles
Early Learning
Personalized Learning
Digital Learning
Skills Learning
Mindful Learning
Early Learning
Early learning is an important phase that embraces the unique needs of young children by providing age-appropriate, engaging, and hands-on activities.
According to the National Education Association, early childhood learning yields significant positive benefits. Students with access to high quality early education programs are more successful in school, more likely to graduate, and earn more over the course of their lifetimes than those who don’t attend early learning programs.
Though the exact age group may vary by program, the target age group generally includes prekindergarten students through about first grade. Early learning lays an educational foundation, helping young students prepare for kindergarten and develop academically, socially, and emotionally through developmentally appropriate lessons and activities.
What does early learning look like?
Access and funding for early learning varies by location, but can include public school Pre-K and kindergarten programs, high quality preschools and daycares, Montessori schools for young children, and resources from organizations such as Head Start.
Early learning focuses on meeting children where they are with age-appropriate, engaging, and hands-on activities designed to prepare them for success in kindergarten and beyond. Typical learning spaces are bright and welcoming, with child-sized furnishings and an array of manipulatives, learning materials, and accessories for imagination and play. Opportunities to connect students with nature and provide sensory stimulation, such as water play or outdoor learning stations, are integrated into the learning space and the school day.
Psychologist Erik Erickson developed a framework for understanding psychosocial development across a lifespan; stages impacting early childhood learners may include navigating autonomy vs. shame and doubt (18 months to age 3) and initiative vs. guilt (ages 3-5). Children in these stages are learning to do things independently and exploring the impact of their decisions as they play and learn with others; their learning spaces should support them as they master their environments and interact successfully with others.
Montessori schools exemplify this type of child-centric learning. Students are active owners and participants in their classroom, and teachers serve as guides and observers as students engage in self-directed, sensory-based activities which are scaffolded to encourage mastery and growth. Everything in the learning environment is child-scaled, tactile, accessible, and orderly; even very young students are taught how to navigate the classroom independently and participate in its care as part of a supportive learning community.
Pioneering Change: Trends in Early Learning
Innovation in education extends far beyond the confines of traditional practices. One facet of this innovation lies in reducing administrative burdens so that teachers can spend more time and energy on meaningful engagement with students. Technological solutions, such as teacher training platforms and automated processes, hold the potential to revolutionize how educators manage tasks from professional development to enrollment procedures.
Innovation may also help make early education more accessible to all—a realm where disparities persist. Acknowledging that only two out of 10 children in the US currently have access to highquality early education,Universal Design for Learning emerges as a research-based framework offering strategies to create inclusive and accessible learning environments. These guidelines advocate for thoughtful design, optimal visibility, versatile spaces, and considerations for both individual and communal activities, all aimed at fostering an educational landscape that is both equitable and enriching for every learner.
According to Universal Design for Learning, districts should:
Design learning environments to be accessible to all students and staff.
Design for optimal visibility to make supervision easy.
Provide spaces for a variety of classroom functions: independent activities, small group activities, and community activities.
Clearly delineate classrooms spaces such as areas for center work, and be mindful of adjacency so that quiet and loud activities are separated.
Provide adequate space, including circulation, so that students can work or play comfortably.
Consider adding “respite” spaces which offer opportunities to rest and re-set during the school day.
Personalized Learning
Within the diverse tapestry of our student body, everyone brings a unique blend of interests, skills, experiences, developmental stages, and academic requirements.
Students arrive in our schools with vastly different interests, skill sets, experiences, developmental levels, and academic needs –even within the same grade level. A one-size-fits-all approach will inevitably leave some students behind while failing to challenge others; it may be an efficient way to deliver content quickly, but is unlikely to result in universal success or engagement with the material. Enter “personalized learning,” also known as studentcentered learning. Personalized learning helps educators to meet students where they are, and allows students to self-direct at least some parts of the educational experience in a way that encourages success.
According to the Glossary of Education Reform, personalized learning “refers to a diverse variety of educational programs, learning experiences, instructional approaches, and academicsupport strategies that are intended to address the distinct learning needs, interests, aspirations, or cultural backgrounds of individual students.” Appropriately applied, this strategy benefits all ages of learners.
What Does Personalized Learning Look like?
Creating opportunities for personalized learning within the school day involves a diverse tool kit of strategies that can be tailored for each setting. These strategies may include carving out time for small-group instruction that allows for more individualization, providing differentiated instruction by teaching concepts at multiple levels or in multiple learning modalities, offering choice within the learning environment where possible, allowing students to develop and pursue individual learning plans, and facilitating project-based learning opportunities.
Establish environments for students with a bodykinesthetic learning style by implementing an interactive and playful system designed to enhance physical coordination and agility.
Implementing a diverse range of musical instruments, interactive technology, and collaborative projects fosters an enriched learning environment in your music classroom, effectively nurturing and expanding the musical intelligence of students.
Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences
Gardner’s theory suggests that people have many kinds of intelligence including musical, interpersonal, spatial-visual, and linguistic skills. These strengths may occur in combination, and can provide insights into a student’s areas of proficiency. Understanding a students preferred methods of interacting with information helps educators customize the environment.
Visual-Spatial Intelligence: Individuals strong in visual-spatial intelligence excel in understanding and interpreting visual information. They easily grasp spatial relationships, shapes, and patterns, showcasing a talent for visualization and navigation.
Linguistic-Verbal Intelligence: Linguistic-verbal intelligence is evident in individuals who excel in language-related tasks. They demonstrate a keen ability to use words effectively, expressing ideas, understanding complex language structures, and effectively communicating with others.
Logical-Mathematical Intelligence: Those with strong logical-mathematical intelligence are adept at reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical operations. They excel in analytical thinking, recognizing patterns, and deducing logical conclusions.
Body-Kinesthetic Intelligence: Body-kinesthetic intelligence is marked by a heightened awareness and control of one’s body movements. Individuals with this intelligence excel in activities that involve physical coordination, agility, and a keen sense of body awareness.
Musical Intelligence: Musical intelligence is evident in individuals who exhibit a deep appreciation for and proficiency in music. They easily recognize and create musical patterns, demonstrating a heightened sensitivity to rhythm, melody, and harmony.
Interpersonal Intelligence: Individuals with strong interpersonal intelligence possess an innate ability to understand and connect with others. They excel in social situations, displaying empathy, effective communication, and the capacity to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
Intrapersonal Intelligence: Intrapersonal intelligence refers to a deep understanding of oneself. Individuals with this intelligence are introspective and self-aware, demonstrating a strong sense of personal identity, emotions, and motivations.
Naturalistic Intelligence: Naturalistic intelligence is observed in individuals who have a heightened sensitivity and appreciation for the natural world. They easily recognize and classify various elements of the environment, demonstrating a keen connection to nature and its patterns.
A richly stocked library with diverse books and cozy reading nooks will inspire linguistic/verbal learners (as well as many others) to engage with the space.
A Practical Guide to Personalized Learning
New Roles for Educators
In the personalized learning model, teachers function as facilitators and coaches who help students understand how to learn, and to love the process of learning. They assist students in uncovering and understanding the information they find; they also monitor which strategies are working/not working because they receive immediate feedback when students demonstrate their understanding of the concepts.
Implementing a “Genius Hour”10 provides opportunities for students to explore their own passions during the school day, engaging them in learning through topics they select.
Navigating Assessment Challenges in Education
Measuring outcomes in personalized learning can be challenging in districts with rigid curricula or standardized testing; however, deliverables such as student portfolios or the use of rubrics and other alternative assessment tools can complement traditional academic assessments for a fuller picture of student achievement and growth. The idea of a “competency-based” education shifts the assessment paradigm from grade-based learning to skill demonstration; some schools have implemented a blended grade level structure with an emphasis on assessing individual skills development rather than traditional grade-level milestones.
In the physical environment, personalized learning takes many forms as the architecture supports the teaching strategies. Furniture vendor Steelcase11 and the digital publication District Administration12 have both developed excellent resources for personalized learning spaces.
Unlocking Innovation in Education: 7 Key Strategies for a Dynamic Learning Environment
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Showcasing Student Work: Foster a culture of inspiration by dedicating spaces for students to share their work, creating vibrant art galleries or display shelves within the classroom. Providing places for display and celebration only instills pride within the learning community but also promotes peer-to-peer education.
Home-Like Classroom Integration: Break the traditional mold by incorporating home-like features into the classroom. From cozy corners to standing-height tables reminiscent of kitchen islands to soft furnishings, these elements encourage students to feel relaxed, safe, and take ownership of their learning environment. 2
Versatile Learning Spaces: Embrace the diversity of learning styles with strategically designed spaces. From collaboration areas catering to various group sizes to dedicated zones for individual study and contemplation, these spaces support a spectrum of tasks throughout the day.
Playful Learning: Recognize the value of play as a learning tool. Cultivate a vibrant classroom that accommodates tactile and digital exploration, and establish makerspaces equipped with tools for creativity and innovation.
Neurodiversity-Inclusive Design: Tailor your classroom to accommodate neurodiversity and address the varied needs of different learning styles.
Project-Based Learning Implementation: Integrate project-based learning approaches to stimulate student engagement and critical thinking.
Micro-Learning Strategy: Focus on shifting instructional delivery from structured lessons within a prescribed class period to small doses of information in brief, focused activities. Bite-sized learning allows just-in-time delivery of information when students are engaged in project-based learning or other personalized pursuits. This method is also intended to be fun and engaging for students with competing demands on their attention.
Digital Learning
Today’s K-12 learners are digital natives who have never experienced a world without the internet, and they require an educational paradigm that aligns with their technological reality.
What Does Digital Learning Look Like?
Today’s K-12 learners are digital natives. They have never known a world without the internet, or all the tools we use to access it. Digital learning acknowledges this reality and harnesses these tools in the service of learning, and also helps to prepare students by teaching them the technology skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.
As opposed to traditional instruction using analog tools – paper, whiteboards, manipulatives, etc. – digital learning folds in the technology tools we use in our daily lives to enhance learning and access knowledge. Desktop computers, Smartboards, tablets, and even student smart phones can be incorporated into the curriculum, supported by dedicated online learning applications, websites, and resources.
Beyond the practical issues of procuring, storing, and managing equipment, digital learning requires a different mindset than lecture-based instructional delivery. Some digital learning opportunities may involve a “flipped classroom” mentality, in which the students learn independently and time with teachers is spent clarifying concepts or coaching students on next steps. Digital learning also requires direct instruction in the responsible use of technology, such as teaching students how to vet sources of information or to navigate social media to build healthy relationships and eliminate cyberbullying. These skills are invaluable in teaching students to live in the public realm as well as to succeed in the classroom.
Digital learning skills are also instrumental within a STEAM curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. STEAM emphasizes process-based learning, and experiences typically involve at least two standards from these fields which are integrated into the learning objectives. Technology is a key component of this curriculum, and also serves as a critical learning resource for each of the others.
Inspiring Literacy: One Teacher's Impact
Educator Caroline Rodgers discovered the Share the Magic Foundation online, and was captivated by its mission to instill joy in reading. Embracing the Read Bowl Champions initiative, a global reading competition for kindergarten through 8th-grade teams, Rodgers witnessed unprecedented success in her classroom, with students reading more than ever before. The triumph extended district-wide, prompting Horry County to integrate the competition into various reading programs. In 2023, Horry County Students collectively read over 20 million minutes, reflecting a significant shift in reading culture. The average student engagement reached approximately 37.8 minutes daily, showcasing a remarkable transformation in students' attitudes toward literature. This success story illustrates the profound impact of the Share the Magic Foundation's initiatives in inspiring a love for reading within the educational community.
Innovation in Digital Learning
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Elevating Education in the Digital Age: Building digital literacy not only means integrating tools such as the internet, social media, and digital learning platforms, but also education on how to understand and harness these tools effectively. Today’s students are learning to read and write and communicate in the digital world, not just the analog world; tools such as multimedia slides, digital production software, and cloud computing can supplement textbooks, workbooks, and pencil-and-paper tests for digital natives.
Digital Integration for Enhanced Learning: Incorporating multimedia slides, digital production software, and cloud computing alongside traditional materials supports a holistic approach to digital literacy and engages students in the digital learning experience.
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Bridging the Digital Divide: During the pandemic, the transition to virtual work and learning was easiest for those with adequate resources; however, recent years have exposed digital gaps between those with hardware, software, and high speed internet and those who can’t afford these tools. Even with school-provided equipment, not every home is set up for successful learning; attention to issues of access will continue to be critical to equity.
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AI as a Learning Tool: AI is increasingly becoming a tool to streamline the delivery of information, in and out of the classroom. For learners, AI can serve as a source of facts while teachers focus on interpretation, reinforcement of concepts, and deeper reflection. AI can also streamline the process of assessment and deliver increasingly challenging tasks as students achieve mastery.
Empowering with Technology: Providing connected devices and ensuring digital literacy empowers educators and students to navigate and embrace evolving technology trends. In the quest for a digitally enriched learning environment, innovation extends to the creation of virtual immersive experiences that foster global learning and cultural understanding. The design of breakout spaces as green rooms for video and podcast production further enhances project-based learning, providing students with valuable real-world skills.
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Gamification: Students love games, and strategic “gamification” of learning opportunities can engage all types of learners, including those who might struggle in a traditional academic setting. Game-based learning or e-sports programs provide opportunities for positive reinforcement and success across social and economic boundaries; these tools have also been linked with higher attendance rates and higher grade averages than traditional programs. One administrator explains, “I’ll give you a list of 80 reasons why we should bring e-sports into -school, but we immediately saw attendance jump and kids were so engaged. It was like a silver bullet. But if all this does is bring a little joy to kids and teachers, and a little laughter and joy to the classroom right now, that’s enough.”
Skills Learning
The implementation of skills-based learning proves beneficial in addressing educational gaps by integrating acquired knowledge into real-world projects and challenges.
Though the goal of any K-12 educational activity is learning, the type of learning a student requires may depend on the task at hand. Knowledge-based learning helps students to understand a concept intellectually, while skills-based learning allows them to practice implementing ideas in a hands-on way. The implementation of skills-based learning proves beneficial in addressing educational gaps by integrating acquired knowledge into real-world projects and challenges. The skill then becomes part of the student’s toolbox moving forward.
What Does Skills Learning Look like?
Skills learning can be applied in a variety of educational settings and tailored to individual learners. Project-based learning provides continuous opportunities to meet students where they are and to deliver and practice skills on an as-needed basis. In addition to academic skills, most students will benefit from direct instruction on soft skills to set them up for success in adulthood; this is particularly true for students engaged in virtual learning who aren’t practicing these skills in person on a daily basis. Even adult learners benefit from lifelong learning to develop and hone new skills; continuing education and up-skilling will help people stay up to date, change careers, and thrive in a rapidly changing workforce environment over the course of their careers.
Mastery-Based Grading
Traditional letter-based grading systems leave room for uncertainty. Did a student earning a B, for example, demonstrate a solid mastery of the concepts, or just show effort and improvement? Did a student earning a D fail to demonstrate adequate knowledge of the material, or do factors such as lateness or sloppiness of a presentation play into the grade? Mastery-based grading helps to clarify expectations for both students and teachers, and can create a more accurate picture of a student’s skills development. This approach fosters a “growth” mindset rather than a “minimum” mindset. Instead of encouraging students to achieve “just enough,” a mastery-based approach helps students understand which skills are being targeted, and offers choice in how they demonstrate mastery and move to more advanced skills. Teachers can incorporate single-skill rubrics instead of broad, letter-based grades to assess progress.
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
For older students, skills-based learning may involve handson experiences exploring potential career fields and building marketable workforce skills. From STEM programs to work/study opportunities to trade courses such as welding and cosmetology, CTE programs help students build the skills they need to bridge high school and higher education or the workforce. CTE schools can be integrated into a traditional campus, or be standalone campuses that students from multiple schools attend for specific coursework. Some states have established programs to build connections between potential employers and students; Navigator for North Carolina’s schools, for example, serves this purpose for the state’s 100 counties.
Designs for skills-based learning might include makerspaces, STEM labs, project rooms, and other spaces where students can be a bit messier and louder than in a traditional classroom to encourage exploration.
“Empowering students through the invitation to join focused small groups cultivates a profound sense of ownership over their education and instills accountability in their learning journey.”
Caroline Rogers Educator at Ocean Drive Elementary School
Active Experimentation
Concrete Experience
Feel & Do
Feel
& Watch
EXPERIENCE
TRANSFORMING
EXPERIENCE
GRASPING
Think & DoThink & Watch
Reflective Observation
Abstract Conceptualization
Kolb’s Cycle of Experiential Learning
Skills-based learning also plays heavily into Kolb’s Cycle of Experiential Learning, a model in which students learn through a continuous cycle of concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Through experiential learning, students apply a skill during a hands-on task which then lays the foundation for deeper knowledge; this cycle continues with increasingly challenging skills and concepts.
Mindful Learning
Mindful learning seeks to help children understand what they are fe eling and why and addresses these feelings in a positive manner.28
Students come to an academic setting with diverse experiences, perspectives, worries, and coping skills. In an increasingly complex world, mindful learning intentionally teaches students about internal awareness and practices to help students cope with stresses beyond academics.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Helping students succeed academically often begins with providing them the tools to manage their emotions, make good choices, and build healthy relationships. Effective SEL instruction has been shown to improve academic performance, reduce behavioral issues, and create positive benefits for students into adulthood.29 Examples include highlighting student progress rather than just celebrating correct answers, reinforcing a sense of community by thanking students for their presence and attention, or identifying classroom discussion patterns to better engage all students.30
Trauma-Informed Practices
Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are on the rise for students of all ages, particularly in the wake of pandemicera disruptions. “Whether they’re ready or not, schools are being forced to serve as the frontline providers of mental health services for America’s youth,” explains Pete Talbot, Managing Director of educational data analysis group EAB. In fact, EAB reports that 35% of students aged 14-18 experience a mental health crisis each year.31
Incorporating Movement and Nature
Students of all ages perform better when learning occurs in digestible “chunks.” Even adults struggle to retain focus during back-to-back meetings. Younger learners, particularly, need “brain breaks” for rest, recreation, and recharging.32 Some students thrive on kinesthetic learning, and incorporating movement into structured lessons will allow students to engage physically as well as mentally during the school day. Many schools incorporate outdoor learning spaces and biophilic design into their school
facilities; natural light, views to nature, and hands-on learning in an outdoor setting all help to reduce stress, improve focus, and boost wellness. The National Outdoor Learning Library33 is an excellent resource for including nature in the school day through play spaces, school gardens, living schoolyards, and outdoor classrooms.
Spaces for mindful learning often feature empathetic, biophilic, and metamorphic design elements to provide a comfortable, interactive environment that connects students with nature. Classroom design may also integrate trauma-informed practices to carve out safe spaces for reflection and emotional regulation. Examples include using lamps instead of fluorescent overhead lights, providing a cool-down corner with sensory tools, allowing students the flexibility to move, bringing in nature, reducing noise, providing clear sightlines, and implementing serene colors.34
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Furniture and Lamps: Research consistently demonstrates that the physical environment plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning experience. Strategic selection of furniture and lighting can enhance cognitive function and concentration. Ergonomically designed furniture contributes to improved posture and comfort, positively impacting students’ engagement and focus. Additionally, well-placed lamps with adjustable lighting not only create an inviting ambiance but also contribute to reducing eye strain and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
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Cool Down Spaces with Sensory Tools: Mindful learning environments recognize the importance of emotional well-being. Creating designated cool-down spaces equipped with sensory tools can be instrumental in supporting students in managing stress and regulating emotions. Research in psychology underscores the efficacy of sensory tools, such as stress balls or fidget spinners, in promoting relaxation and concentration. Implementing these spaces offers students a retreat to recalibrate, contributing to a more emotionally intelligent and resilient learning community.
Bringing Nature into the Classroom: Incorporating natural elements into the classroom setting has been linked to numerous cognitive and psychological benefits. Research in environmental psychology suggests that exposure to nature positively impacts attention restoration and stress reduction. Integrating potted plants, nature-themed decor, or even views of greenery can contribute to a calming and refreshing atmosphere, promoting a more positive and conducive learning environment.
Integrating a Welcome Guidance Area for One-on-One Counselors: Acknowledging the individual needs of students is fundamental to fostering a supportive educational environment. Establishing a dedicated welcome guidance area, staffed by one-on-one counselors, provides students with a personalized support system. This approach not only facilitates academic success but also fosters a sense of belonging and emotional well-being among students, creating a more holistic and effective learning environment. 4
Tailoring Education for Student Success
In applying new modalities of learning, it is important to remember that there is no “one size fits all” approach that is appropriate for every school, every classroom, and every child. Successful implementation also doesn’t mean choosing one technique and applying it fully, 100% of the time. Some tools are better suited to particular age groups or activities. Teaching the whole child requires a diverse tool kit of strategies, the ability to tailor learning to fit the desired objectives, and the ability to differentiate instruction for each child.
Instructional methods can and should be intermixed; for example, one lesson might be guided by Digital and Mindful Learning, while the
next might draw from Skills and Personalized learning, or Early and Mindful Learning. Of these strategies, Mindful Learning may be the most frequently applied to every aspect of the school day.
Folding new strategies into the instructional environment will require collaboration and buy-in from a variety of stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, and parents. However, the investment of time and resources in delivering new instructional models will yield substantial dividends in terms of student engagement, wellness, and success.
References
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