Chloe
The days of strict education are gone, and today, we have students growing up in a world of digital content that’s completely catered to their interests, needs and strengths. These kids are setting new standards for schools, so teachers need to rethink their classrooms to move forward in the future. Here are just some of the beautiful and useful trends in classroom design that you can expect to see.
Inclusion of various learning styles
Some students prefer to learn in groups, while others love to be left alone with their tasks, so classrooms need to cater to different learning styles. One solution to this issue is to create different learning zones in classrooms that allow kids to work in groups, in pairs or individually. This trend also gives kids something called ‘educational autonomy’ so students can be in charge of their education style, space and pace.
Universal design
This trend focuses on creating a design that allows classrooms to be used by all students to the greatest degree possible. Designers here aim for equitable use, simplicity, intuitiveness, smart sizing and flexibility, so all students will feel welcome and included in the classroom. This trend creates an environment that’s learning-centered and provides zero-obstacle access and benefits to all students and teachers.
Modular classrooms
Traditional building methods are reliable, but today, we need results that are affordable and quick, so many schools are opting for modular additions to their buildings. Today, thanks to modular classrooms, different sizes of schools and learning spaces with all the amenities and administration offices can be built in as little as 90 days. And there are no disruptive construction sites—off-site technology allows a safe and distraction-free environment. The choice of materials, layouts and designs is endless, so each school can pick out something that fits its needs.
Different seating options
Remember your classroom, and now remember the chairs. In most cases, they are hard and uncomfortable. Most people think that that’s good since it prevents daydreaming and dozing off, but since every student is unique, a good classroom needs a variety of seating options so everyone can find something that works for them. This trend includes options like traditional chairs, bean bags, couches, exercise balls and others.
Technology integration
Some teachers think that phones and laptops are disruptive to the learning process, others think that these tech options can accommodate a ton of needs for different students. Technology integration is a trend that equips classrooms with techs like projectors and digital whiteboards that allow easy notes download and information sharing. Laptops allow the integration of rich content like digital textbooks, interactive quizzes, podcast lectures and more. Thanks to modular classroom design, most existing buildings can be retrofitted with tech to meet modern trends. Mixed with cutting-edge design, these learning spaces can make learning comfortable, easy, fun and accessible to everyone.
Biophilic design
Biophilic design is trying to mimic and incorporate nature in closed spaces which is a practice that boosts productivity and wellbeing in the classroom. This trend is trying to reconnect kids with nature by utilizing natural elements, tactile materials and natural light. All of this can improve learning speed and boost focus during class. Think elements like wooden textures, natural materials that are warm and welcoming, plenty of indoor plants, big windows and floors and furniture that feels like grass. Biophilic design improves circadian rhythm and boosts mood to create rested and focused students.
Hygienic spaces
Since the pandemic is still present and will continue to be the focus of our lives for a long time, classroom furnishing that allows distancing will continue to be trendy in classroom design. For instance, today we have table+chair combos with protective screens that can still be easily configurable and mobile. Steel writing surfaces can easily be integrated into a group setting, yet hard to scratch, dent or stain. As pandemic safety rules harden or soften, these desks can easily be moved around to accommodate current rules.
Air quality is also a big deal. As we are learning about how COVID-19 transmits, we can update our HVAC needs and integrate air monitors that check the quality of indoor air and keep students, teachers and workers safe. Cleanliness will also be important in the future, which means surfaces that are easy to clean and workspaces that are easy to personalize.
Classrooms are changing, and that’s nothing that should scare us. Our kids and their kids will get better education thanks to these trends and get to enjoy school with minimal stress and maximum fun, accessibility and inclusiveness.
