The Importance of a Physical Classroom Environment in Education

The importance of a physical classroom environment in education can positively affect student learning. Changing the classroom environment could increase academic engagement and decrease the disruptive behaviour of students.  

Think back to some classroom environments kids encountered on their educational path. During childhood, the learning environments they engaged in may have been vibrant and colourful, with a desk layout that allowed flexibility and creativity.  

Similarly, at K.R. Mangalam World School, we emphasised providing students with a healthy and engaging physical classroom environment. It helps kids develop essential physical skills, such as motor coordination, balance, strength, and agility. 

Why Is the Physical Classroom Environment Important? 

The learning-centred environments are defined by their physical environment, including their walls. A physical classroom environment gives students flexibility of seating and fosters a positive outlook that supports learning.  

The physical classroom environment can also benefit students by giving them:  

Optimal learning environments 

The design of optimal learning spaces can have a positive impact on how the students learn. As a result of physical classroom environment, it becomes easier for individuals to engage in powerful and engaging learning experiences. 

The essence of what we do in class is collaboration and innovation, and as such, the way we set up our classroom is an extremely important factor. In such an environment, there will always be a place for everyone, even those who require a quiet working area to learning to concentrate. 

Changing Norms 

To do all of this work, the key may simply be flexibility in the way in which the space can be utilised. One of how researchers suggests that a flexible front or "defrosting" of the classroom can be used as a way of creating a learning environment that is flexible and student-centred. It is best to have the classroom set up in such a way as to match the lesson and learning experience, along with students participating in the process of setting up and rearranging the classroom throughout the day as needed. 

How can physical spaces play a role in promoting learning? 

The overall design of the classroom, like the furniture, wall and lighting integrated with technology can establish a learning environment that facilitates effective instruction and student growth. 

There are many other things that can be included in a classroom, such as music or other elements from nature that can be brought into the classroom, that are equally important. 

Among the questions you may want to ask yourself, whether my classroom has areas that are conducive to collaboration, where students have the opportunity to engage, where they can engage physically, and what is the overall stimulation level based on what is inside the room and how it is arranged.  

Do you find the decoration to be distracting in any way? How does the decoration relate to the learning that is taking place? Is there a demonstration of learning processes and is there an engendering of curiosity in the displays? 

Conclusion 

The importance of the physical classroom environment cannot be denied. In flexible and innovative learning spaces, technology devices are used in a way that enhances or supports learning, not one that drives it. The creation of classrooms and a culture of learning that reflects the goals of real-world learning is crucial if we are to provide meaningful, relevant education.  

As a matter of fact, it is worth thinking about how to create authentic learning environments that offer opportunities for students to engage in learning in many different ways, both inside and outside the classroom through face-to-face or virtual encounters and interactions. In terms of learning environments, both hands-on and active learning spaces and spaces that promote reflection can be beneficial. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Q1. Why is the physical environment important in the classroom? 

A. Changing the classroom environment could increase academic engagement and decrease the disruptive behaviour of kids. 

Q2. How can the design of optimal learning space engage students in learning? 

A. Optimal learning space priorities flexible seating, creating group and work zones which positively impact students' learning.