How furniture can create the perfect learning space

By Sarah Davison, Industry Reporter

In decades past, classroom design was often an afterthought and followed a standardised layout. Plain boxed shaped classrooms, with identical chairs and tables throughout were commonplace in many schools.

Recently, though, there has been a shift away from this one-sizefits all approach to classroom design, with recognition that an engaging classroom design can help enhance the education experience for students. The design of a classroom and furniture choices made have a strong influence on creating a positive, productive learning environment. Tailoring furniture to suit a space can provide increased flexibility in learning spaces, encourage alternate methods of learning and teaching, and strengthen student engagement with their classroom subjects.

Researchers at the University of Salford Manchester found that classroom design can boost student learning. According to the results of the study, the physical characteristics of a classroom can affect how successful a class is. The study identified that design parameters including light, temperature, air quality, flexibility, colour and ownership of a classroom space all affected student outcomes. These factors, then, should be incorporated into plans for new classrooms, and redesign of existing spaces.

Arch Daily, an online platform for architects, said the design of a classroom forms part of the “fundamental trilogy” for successful learning. “There is a fundamental trilogy for successful learning: the qualifications of the teaching staff, the interest of the students, and the quality of the physical environment – the classroom,” Arch Daily said.

When considering the design of a 21st century classroom, flexibility is key. This can be achieved through furniture that allows educators and students to experiment with classroom layout and design. Furniture like desks and cupboards that are on wheels, for example, allow the classroom set up to be adapted for different learning activities. Individual, small group work and wider collaboration can all be facilitated when a space can be easily reconfigured. This flexibility means spaces can also be used as venues for other activities, not just as classrooms. School or community groups may utilise the space for meetings, students can showcase their work to their peers and wider community, or students or staff can come together in the space for workshops and team building experiences.

With student numbers in many schools increasing without a comparable growth in physical space, furniture which provides storage solutions can be particularly useful. Tables or seats with storage compartments, and slimline cabinetry can help accommodate learning tools in a functional way, without occupying valuable floor space.