Sensory Impacts of Learning Environments
A pilot study to explore if school building design has demonstrable impacts on the learning rates of pupils in primary schools. We use all our senses to understand the spaces we inhabit; as designers it is important for us to apply this knowledge to the spaces we design. IBI THiNK have developed a wealth of knowledge of sensory design within both Healthcare and Education sectors. Our collaboration with Salford University, facilitated by the support of Blackpool Local Authority, extends our understanding of the impact of the built environment on learning.
For further information, please contact: Katie Endicott (PR) katie.endicott@ibigroup.com Caroline Paradise (Research) caroline.paradise@ibigroup.com www.ibigroup.com www.ibi-nightingale.com www.tayloryoung.co.uk
The pilot study has provided promising results indicating that the classroom environment has a significant impact on academic progress. Initial findings highlight six of ten key factors which are related to both design and use of the classroom. Most of these could equally relate to refurbishment projects and new build, resolving existing problems with limited available budgets. Design application Interpretting the findings in terms of the design process and the considerations at different stages will help designers and schools alike. This interpretation by IBI THiNK forms the basis of a toolkit to support design decisions throughout a project, as well as help teachers understand how to make the most of the space at their disposal.
Data collected from 751 pupils and 34 classrooms in 7 different schools. Initial findings suggest classroom environments can affect a child’s academic progress by as much as 25%.
Stages of development Design considerations that can have an impact on the classroom learning environment are made at all stages of the design process, from concept and site massing, to specification of FFE. The findings suggest that key design decisions relate to a few specific areas such as; • • •
the lighting environment the flexibility of the space and the activities that can happen within it the connection with the rest of the school
IBI Education will be incorporating these research findings into their designs to help schools provide effective learning environments that support both the children and the teacher. Next stage Following the success of the pilot study, a second phase of the study will look to clarify the findings through the evaluation of another 20 schools. This study builds on the large body of research by IBI THiNK which will continue to support design teams across IBI Group, as well as our clients.