EDucation: CLASSROOM

In the traditional model, learning is primarily teacher-to-student and the classroom is designed to accommodate a lecture and discussion. The instructor’s desk is placed front-and-center, with access to whiteboards and technology that may be used to augment lecture material. An instructor desk with fixed lectern allows the teacher to sit or stand while leading discussion or during a “break” as students complete a written exercise. In this conventional scenario, students are most often seated in chairs arranged in parallel rows or in a U-shape. Mobile tables and screens can also be furnished to allow students to quickly reconfigure the space for small group interaction.

Active learning classrooms are complex environments where students participate fully in a dynamic process that promotes critical thinking. Lightweight, mobile furniture allows students and instructors to modify classroom geography and centers of interest, thereby supporting a variety of learning strategies and activities. Mobile whiteboards can be moved around to define collaborative work areas for project teams or study groups, while also acting as a low-tech tool for sharing ideas and information. Mobile chairs with a tablet arm and a shelf for bags and books assist in making quick transitions from one learning mode to the next.

Teaching methods differ widely among faculty members. One instructor might intersperse a lecture with quick quizzes, brief writing assignments and role-playing exercises. Another may favor small group problem-solving tasks. Allocating a single table for each person is an “old school” format that gives the student his or her own place to read or write, enables eye contact with the instructor and allows the student to participate in general discussion. At the same time, a fixed table can hamper other modes of learning. Mobile tables can be moved, grouped and/or ganged together to support fluid transitions from teacher-centered to peer-to-peer learning.

In a classroom used primarily for lectures, different height seating and tables can create a tiered effect that improves sight lines to the instructor or to a video that is used to enhance class content. The instructor may prefer to have not only a desk at the front of the room, but also a lectern that acts as a defining element and provides a surface for lecture notes, books or a laptop. Student 21seating and tables can be off-set with reference to the speaker’s position or combined in a U-shape that changes the dynamic of the room and encourages a lively student/teacher dialogue.

Flexibility is key for active learning scenarios in which students learn by engaging with peers and working together on projects that promote a deeper understanding of class content. Mobile flip-top tables and whiteboards are ideal for these dynamic environments, allowing for quick reorientation within the classroom and providing a writable surface on which to capture ideas. Modular and mobile seating contributes further to the flexibility of the room, allowing users to configure the space for focused work, peer-to-peer interaction or open group discussion.

In the flipped classroom, students read material or watch video lectures prior to class—and devote time to projects and exercises during the class session, working alone or with peers according to the assignment. Mobile furniture can be organized to adapt to changing needs and to allow the instructor to interact with and assess the progress of students at work. Fixed and mobile whiteboards give every student physical and visual access to the data displayed, while digital tools further enhance sharing and learning. Taking ergonomics into consideration, comfortable seating and height-adjustable tables allow for alterations in posture and help students to remain alert and engaged.

The 21st century campus may encompass a computer lab, technology-enhanced classrooms and project rooms that incorporate digital learning tools. In some cases, students gather around a table and a screen to view a lecture via Skype or other video software. Tables may also be equipped with integrated electronic connectivity that allows students to project and share data, promoting focus and engagement among class participants. In a lab setting, students use computers to view a web-based course, take a test or make use of specialized software in subjects such as engineering, architecture or design. Interaction is generally limited.

Casual and modular lounge furniture identifies an unconventional learning space enlivened by vibrant colors that help to stimulate energy and creative thinking. Ottomans, benches and light mobile screens lend the classroom a relaxed look and feel, while also providing reconfigurable elements that give students and teachers a sense of control and ownership of the environment. Semi-enclosed spaces provide a degree of privacy for reading, writing or engaging directly with the instructor. Along the perimeter of the space, furniture and technology are integrated to address the needs of students who are using digital tools to support collaborative work.