CEFPI World Congress on Educational Environments
Innovative Classrooms of 2021 The Learner Think Tank. In the year 2012, schools aggressively pushed for a new focus on college and career readiness. In doing so, they looked at the original inspiration for classroom design and organization. Even though it was rooted in the industrial model, it had not evolved as many factories had. As a matter of fact, the manufacturing environments had undergone radical changes. Modern workplaces had also undergone radical changes, abandoning the notion of isolation and noninclusive work product. Ironically, school workspaces hadn’t changed. Based on a desire to change, educators, architects and educational facility planners looked at the modern workspace for inspiration. Aligning the learning environment with the work environment helped create spaces where innovation, creativity and collaboration thrived. In 2021, learning spaces are considered innovative workplaces. I By 2021, learning spaces and workplaces are linked, sharing many of the same characteristics, goals and outcomes. These innovative workplaces, “although the term workplace almost seems a misnomer these days as work can be accomplished in a myriad of new ways and locations�, II are designed with communication, collaboration, creativity and innovation in mind. By embracing a culture of creativity and innovation, these learner think tanks have resulted in higher performance and student success, and in a much closer connection between learners and facilitators, learners and learners, and learners and their community. Following the Innovative Workplace Model developed in the year 2010 as a basis, the new learner think tanks are built on eight dimensions that work to create dynamic environments that support learners and help them meet their goals. This is much in line with the workplace environment and the way companies help support their employees while meeting their performance objectives. THE MODEL IS AS FOLLOWS:
Figure 1 - Source: University of Kentucky Institute for Workplace Innovation
THESE EIGHT DIMENSIONS ARE INTERRELATED, AND AS A WHOLE, THEY PROVIDE THE FOUNDATION FOR THE LEARNER THINK TANK:
DIMENSION
WORKPLACE
LEARNER THINK TANK
EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION
Management techniques that respect and support a variety of thought and work styles
Facilitator works with each learner’s individual learning styles to create the best learning environment for each individual learner
LEARNING & ADVANCEMENT
Management strategies that promote tasks and projects that challenge employees
Activities are designed based on student’s strengths and interests, so they are engaged in their own learning.
WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY
Flexible work arrangements allow employees to balance their work and no-work responsibilities, reducing stress and increasing performance
Learners are allowed the flexibility to work on the schedule that best suits them. The think tank provides them flexible and varied settings for tackling diverse activities and tasks.
CULTURE OF INCLUSION
An inclusive work environment that strengthens everyone’s ability to commit and to accomplish the desired business result.
Learners feel comfortable in the learning environment as they share their own ideas, which may be based on their own cultural background, and are met with respect and support. Learners commit fully to learning as they respect and are interested in everyone’s input and ideas.
MEANINGFUL WORK
Work environment that results in longer employee tenure and less turnover as employees are engaged in meaningful work.
Learners are challenged and have the opportunity to be creative and to be rewarded for their work. Facilitators allow learners the opportunity to identify those projects that they consider meaningful, and they assist in making the real life connections based on their selected tasks.
CULTIVATION OF SOCIAL & SUPPORT TEAMS
Employees stay working for the company as the environment allows them to develop close relationships with their bosses.
Learners and Facilitators have a connection that is based on trust, allowing them to work together collaboratively. Learners also have the same opportunity to develop connections between themselves, creating an environment where creativity and innovation thrives.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
COMPETITIVE COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Work environment that focuses on results over hours, empowering employees to take charge of their work schedule.
Accomplishments are rewarded and celebrated, empowering students to take on more challenges and become fully engaged in the work. Trust received from the facilitators incents them to work more productively and creatively.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Work environments that promote health beyond just exercise and diet. These environments foster relationships between supervisors and employees in order to reduce stress and other associated health risks.
Understanding the connection between movement and learning, the think tank encourages movement as part of the daily routine. Trusting relationships between facilitators and learners help identify at risk students early so that help and support can be provided.
THE LEARNER THINK TANK IS ORGANIZED IN SEVEN MAJOR AREAS: 1. Outdoor Learning Area
2. Large Group Area 3. Informal break out
4. Innovation Station 5. Quiet Tank
6. Spill Space 7. Storage / Support
3 5 6
2
1
4 7
These seven spaces support the “Innovative Workplace” environment by providing a variety of settings that can support each of the dimensions and by fostering a culture of communication, collaboration, creativity and innovation. According to Tim Springer, PhD, “creative interactions can take place anywhere – individual offices, hallways, lunch rooms, informal spaces, and meeting rooms. The challenge is to support both independent and interactive work and easy transition between the two modes.” III
TO THIS EFFECT, THE LEARNER THINK TANK WAS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES: • Informal conversation in the spill over area, where different teams can come out and vet ideas out with other classmates. This are also allows for observation to the activities happening in the room, given the seating configuration and the transparency to the room. The graphics also provide a bright focus for increased conversation and exploration. The transparency, seating configuration and flooring pattern help tie this space to the Innovation station. • Creation, collaboration and ideation is the main focus of the innovation station. This station provides the setting for new ideas and concepts to be developed, in a setting that allows for individual work and collaboration. The seating area allows spaces for students to work individually, but the transparency of the screens and the meeting post that the furniture provides,; create excellent collaboration and conversations spots. Inspired by the “Breathe Wall” and the graphic ceiling, the space is abuzz with energy, ideas and fun. • Adjacent to the innovation station is the quiet tank, were ideas are developed and concepts evaluated. The table provides for conversation, with walls that provide privacy and plenty of writing opportunities. The acoustics of the space are enhanced by the ceiling treatment, making for a perfect room to deliberate and develop plans of action. • The large group area provides flexibility for a variety of activities to take place. From lecture to individual work, the flexibility of the tables and chairs allow for an agile work environment that can change as needed. Learners can reorganize the room and work in groups of 2, 4, 8 or even 24, depending on the task at hand. The technology rich wall allows for a variety of displays to take place, and for interactivity with the students own technology with the IPAD/IPHONE docking stations. The space is open to the outdoor space, allowing the two spaces to become one large learning space. The large group area also has a pivot wall that leads to the support and storage area, which makes the space complete. • Within the large group area is the informal break out space, with seating that is loose, relaxed and fun. This breakout space allows for conversation and for a fun setting where ideas can be shared. The seating brings color and comfort to the room, and its light weight allows it to be relocated anywhere in the room, and even the outdoors. OVERALL, THE LEARNER THINK TANK INCLUDES DIFFERENT ORGANIZATIONAL STRATEGIES WHICH ARE SIMILAR TO THOSE FOUND IN INNOVATIVE WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTS: • Multi-purpose space : Using space for different activities, which reduces the need for dedicated specific function spaces • On-site/flexible/drop-in spaces: Unassigned workspaces that are available on a just time, first come, first serve basis. • Hoteling: The treatment of workspaces like a hotel, where they can reserve a space for the time they need and release it to be soused by others when they are finished. • Zones and neighborhoods: Creating activity based spaces that are clustered together. IV
SOME OF THE OTHER PRACTICAL FEATURES OF THE LEARNER THINK TANK ARE: • The workspace has an experimental component, with natural light, bright colors and graphics as creative workers like visual stimulation • The workspace is productive, with a variety of settings to accommodate different learning styles • It provides diversity with a wider and richer range of work settings that can support creative and collaborative work • It includes more shared space, space that is not owned and can be used by different people daily • It is sustainable, bringing nature into the space, and utilizing materials that are environmentally friendly. Also, understanding that change is good, it allows for reconfiguration to occur as needed, with wall systems that are demountable, technology friendly and sustainable in their construction. The world of learning is changing, and its relationship to the workplace is growing. The need for flexibility, agility, creativity and collaboration is growing as demanded by changes in technology, economics and globalization. The design of the Learner Think Tank, based on the eight dimensions of the innovative workplace, allows change to occur naturally and positively. The opportunities for our students to learn and perform at their full potential is maximized, while maintaining an environment centered on trust, respect and fun. Swanberg, J., (2010), the innovative workplace: a white paper on developing an innovative workplace. The Working Think Tank powered by University of Kentucky. II Swanberg, J., (2010), the innovative workplace: a white paper on developing an innovative workplace. The Working Think Tank powered by University of Kentucky. III Springer, T, (2011), Fundamentals of Workplace Strategy, Kimball Office IV Springer, T, (2011), Fundamentals of Workplace Strategy, Kimball Office I
To inspire creative minds, a learning environment needs to balance stimulating visuals with high performance. Armstrong offers an extensive portfolio of ceiling and wall systems so you can provide it all - aesthetics, acoustics, flexibility and even environmental benefits: ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS Aesthetically define spaces and enhance acoustics. Install Soundscape Shapes individually or in groups to create unique designs. Soundscape Shapes are an innovative way to control disruptive noise and contribute to comfortable, collaborative learning spaces.
AFFORDABLE ONE-OF-A-KIND SOLUTIONS Create one-of-a-kind ceiling images or custom colors that spur the imagination and inspire students. Use ceiling imagery to encourage careful contemplation. Reasonably priced and acoustical, Ultima Create offers more freedom than ever before.
CREATIVE, COMFORTABLE SOLUTIONS Keep used ceilings out of the landfill. Recycle the ceilings from your next renovation project. Specify ceiling recycling or develop a construction waste management plan for your next project. The Armstrong Ceiling Recycling Program is an easy way for you to help save the environment.
FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS The importance of flexible and changeable spaces for classroom and education needs is addressed with DC FlexZone grid system. DC FlexZone is the only grid system that enables safe, plug-andplay power distribution through the ceiling plane. It distributes power safely and evenly to maximize flexibility in 24 volt DC power distribution systems. Typical pplications include LEED projects, Net Zero Energy Buildings, and buildings where on-site renewable energy is utilized.
FINISH SOLUTIONS The right visual effect can make all the difference. Complement your ceiling design with the edgy look of Axiom Trim and enjoy crisp edge details with smooth connections. The extruded aluminum trim provides the finishing touch to just about any job—straight or curved, wallto-wall or floating, subtle or dramatic.
Learning environments are under constant change. Technology, teaching methods, enrollment‌ all regularly stretch the abilities of the physical space and put it in jeopardy. Older buildings are most endangered, yet they bring a sense of stability and history to their neighborhoods. It is our duty to provide students with schools to support learning and buildings that support society. By creating agile and highly functional interiors, the building itself becomes impervious to the winds of change. DIRTT Walls offer the ability to adapt to changes large and small. They support today’s technology and whatever comes tomorrow. Each Wall is designed as you need, functionally, dimensionally and aesthetically.
DIRTT TECHNOLOGY WALLS DIRTT brings its sustainable, modular, flexible approach to the world of technology. DIRTT construction is a way for walls to support integrated technology as well as constant changes and upgrades within the classroom. The technology wall supports student and teacher interaction with technology-based curriculum and an interactive learning experience, all while using sustainable and flexible construction materials.
BREATHE LIVING WALLS DIRTT brings its sustainable, modular, flexible approach to the world of Living Walls with Breathe. This DIRTT system is a way for everyone to introduce living plants into their interiors to take advantage of the beauty, air cleaning attributes and kick of extra oxygen plants provide, all without using up precious real estate.
HABITAT PAINT FINISHES DIRTT brings its sustainable approach to paint finishes and material selections improving Indoor Environment Quality. With our DIRTT Habitat paint finish we achieve an Indoor Air Quality Certified Gold to SCS-EC10.2-2007. This conforms to California specification 01350 for the school classroom. Finishes like Habitat paint and substrate alternatives like formaldehyde free MDF keep the vital indoor air quality of our schools and classrooms healthy and safe.
Flexible and space-efficient furniture from Kimball Office is built to last and designed to meet the educational needs of students, teachers, and administration. We make it easy to outfit your school system with furnishings that are:
AN APPROACH TO COMFORT Deceptively simple, Fit is intelligent mesh stretched over a cantilevered steel frame. Which means it’s more than a chair, it’s a sling lounge. Invite collaboration and conversation to any space with Fit seating. From community spaces to lobbies, from lounges to study spaces, Fit fits all types of atmospheres and needs.
SPACE-EFFICIENT AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Highly configurable and contemporary, the Villa lounge collection can be arranged in endless ways. Like for huddle rooms, lobbies, reception and community spaces. For delightful comfort in today’s changing learning environments, let your imagination go—arrange Villa to your heart’s desire.
ABLE TO ACCOMMODATE SCHOOLS FROM K-12 TO COLLEGE Here’s a multipurpose chair that has what it takes: comfort, style, and design options to respond to myriad applications, functions, and budgets. Event’s upholstered seat and back make it a comfortable, versatile option for side seating, team rooms and training rooms, break rooms and classrooms, and more.
DESIGNED TO ENHANCE INDIVIDUAL LEARNING AND TEACHING STYLES An open plan solution designed for individual focus, collaborative tasks and everything in between. Creating environments that work the way our minds work, Hum can take you from individual to team without disruption. It encourages creative and critical thinking. It provides a better work experience, resulting in better performance.
MOBILE, FUNCTIONAL, AND EASILY RECONFIGURED FOR FUTURE GROWTH Imagine a world of possibilities everywhere work happens. Intuitive mechanisms make these tables a snap to rearrange, breakdown, nest and store. A superior electrical system lets you run power and hook up technology in no time flat. All while delivering beautiful, durable multipurpose tables and accessories that complement any interior.
BEAUTIFUL, DURABLE, & AFFORDABLE Priority’s broad selection of options and versatile style let you choose the right look for your space. Its intelligent mix of components fits an extensive range of design, application, space and budget challenges. It will help you make a memorable impression.
We at Tandus Flooring believe we have a responsibility to educators, facilities managers, and design professionals. Our mission is to help provide the best environments possible for engaging children and inspiring them to learn.
EDUCATORS AGREE THAT LEARNING EVIRONMENTS REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING: • Low Cost of Ownership • Waterproof to spills and maintenance • Extremely low VOC’s • Easy to maintain and repair • 25+ year life-cycle • Thermal attributes and comfort • Low cost of ownership All of the attributes are found only in hybrid resilient floorcoverings. Tandus Flooring’s hybrid resilient sheet floorcovering is Powerbond - an innovative fit-for-purpose solution for education settings.
ACOUSTICS Excellent acoustics are essential in classrooms and learning environments where aural information and communication are fundamental to the education process. This is especially true in elementary schools, since for younger children, learning to hear and interpret speech and sounds is as much a part of the educational process as the actual content in the lessons being taught. Proper acoustics conducive to ease of communication can also lend itself to reduced vocal effort required by teachers.
ctive
Refle
d Path
Soun
Direct Sound Path
SAVINGS Thermal imaging has shown the closed cell cushion construction of Powerbond offers significantly greater insulation properties and energy savings compared to most other floorcoverings including broadloom and carpet tile.
• 75% of the school day involves listening activities. • U.S. schools may lose as much as $2.5 billion annually in sick leave for teachers with vocal problems. • As many as one-third of all students are miss ing up to 33% of verbal communication in class.1 Source: Acoustical, School Construction News, March/April 2002 1
DESIGN Powerbond’s closed cell cushion construction offers proven performance but it also offers design capabilities unmatched by another floorcovering.
INLAYS Powerbond offers inlay capabilities, which means you can seamlessly inlay Powerbond product within Powerbond product creating beautiful designs. Whether it’s to incorporate schools colors in unique areas throughout the school or to define wayfinding, inlays perfect for educational settings. Take the inlay capabilities one step further and design your school mascot, logo or a unique learning tool and inlay it right into the floor with Tandus Flooring’s ImaginationTM program. Created at the Tandus Flooring headquarters, Imaginations are then shipped to the job site and inset in the Powerbond instillation—seamlessly of course!
IMAGINATIONSTM EASY TO OWN Powerbond is an easy to install, maintain and repair floorcovering solution that offers peace of mind with a 25 year non-pro-rated material warranty. • Available with revolutionary RS “Peel and Stick” installation • Low maintenance cost • Closed cell cushion construction offers easy repairs • 25+ year life cycle