6 Key Elements of 21st Century Classroom Design

In the past century, we as educators have learned a great deal about the process of learning. And yet, our classrooms look much the same as they did back when we were school kids.

It is only within the last few years that educators and administrators have started seriously considering a new classroom design: one that could better accommodate our growing knowledge of effective education methods. This redesigned classroom would facilitate learning experiences and support the movement toward student-directed learning. In addition, it would successfully foster 21^st century skills, such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and leadership.

Here are 6 key elements of this new classroom design:

1. Flexibility of furniture and space
2. Areas for collaborative learning and independent study
3. Facilitation of movement
4. Fostering of inspiration and creativity
5. Technology
6. Light and bright colors

#1 – Flexible Furniture and Space

21^st century classrooms need to accommodate a variety of learning activities, and so they must be flexible, with “zones” designated for different activities. Furniture can be arranged in nooks, each with a designated purpose, such as a lab or a tech zone, group seating for collaborative projects, and a “quiet space” for reading and independent study.

One goal of 21^st century learning is to become more student-centric, empowering students to decide how they learn best. In a world of introverts, extroverts, collaborators, lone wolves, dreamers, and designers, we can’t merely cater to a single type of learner. An “agile” learning environment supports a variety of learning styles, while enabling teachers to accommodate different students’ needs.

The best way to get started? Add casters to existing classroom furniture, for easy maneuverability and reconfiguration. Portable walls or partitions are also useful. Check thrift shops, or ask parents for donations of beanbags and oversized pillows, for comfy reading zones. Your teacher’s desk can also double as a “meeting room” for student-teacher conferences and individual instruction.

#2 – Collaborative and Independent Learning

Open, flexible spaces allow students to come together to share, collaborate, and create. Research shows that people are social learners and the latest trends in 21st century learning advocate problem-based learning, cooperative learning, and reciprocal (peer) teaching. Assignments and hands-on projects that require team collaboration nurture these trends.

Our 21^st century classroom must support these collaborative, social learning activities, as well as hands-on experimentation and discovery. Portable furniture, group seating, and open spaces for active, experiential projects help accomplish these goals.

Conversely, certain aspects of learning require quiet, independent study, including reflection and processing of information. This time and space should also be built into our curricula and our classrooms.

Another interesting idea is to add a “break room” within the classroom, where students can rest their brains, especially if they get “stuck” on a certain problem. Experts believe that when the brain takes a break, it continues to work unconsciously at finding a solution, processing, and applying newly acquired information.

#3 – Embracing Movement

Let’s face it: children aren’t built to sit still. When students have the chance to move, both their brain and their circulation are refreshed. The exercise and change of pace help enhance concentration and reduce fidgeting and daydreaming.

21^st century design accommodates students’ natural need to move, while providing the optimal flexibility. Movement-enhancing classroom elements include: workstations, standing tables (for lab work, etc.), yoga mats, exercise balls, kidney tables and sofas. For maximum functionality and accessibility, lower your whiteboards and tables, to accommodate students of all heights.

#4 – Fostering Inspiration and Creativity

If we expect students to develop and use their creativity, we need to give them an environment that is conducive to inspiration and new ideas. Practical tips for accomplishing this task include:

• Use a paint that transforms walls and other surfaces into brainstorming whiteboard space, allowing students to capture and develop their ideas and share them in a collaborative forum.
• Create an “Inspiration Zone” that includes engaging lab equipment, technology, posters, etc.
• Provide learning tools that students can grasp, manipulate, and interact with. Examples include microscopes, building materials, iPads, growing plants, and art supplies.
• Embrace the MakerSpace concept and enable your students to become makers.

#5 – Incorporating Technology

You know you can’t avoid technology these days. Students love devices, and those gismos, while distracting at times, are actually beneficial for placing information at students’ fingertips. If you can equip your classroom with such devices as computers, video screens, and tablets, your students will be motivated to research and learn new things.  Tech devices also allow students to stay engaged and move at their own pace.

A blog in Edutopia suggests acquiring a Chromebook or an iPad, and then “immediately install an arsenal of apps or Chrome apps” to make that device most useful. The blog includes an extremely helpful and comprehensive list of educational apps, including tools for research, math, student blogging, and classroom organizers. To see the list, click here.

#6 – Incorporating Light and Bright Colors

We’re sure you guessed that technology would be part of the 21^st century classroom, but did you guess “light”? Yes, researchers have determined that bright light (especially natural light) and vibrant color are conducive to brain activity and learning. In one study, learning capabilities improved 7-26% when students were exposed to adequate natural lighting. Proper lighting also reduces headaches. In this new classroom, however, we must be both flexible and tech-friendly, so it’s important to include options for dimming the lights, to make devices or video screens easier to see.

Research also shows that rooms with a balance of light and bright colors can positively impact learning. Color affects the cortex, nervous system, and hormones, which in turn affect our level of alertness and productivity, as well as our emotional state.

Setting the Tone

An important benefit of your new-age classroom will be its affect on your students' perception. Not only is it new, fun, and exciting, but it demonstrates your commitment to innovation and student-centric learning. You are likely to experience a boost in motivation yourself, as you discover the many uses and benefits of your new design.

Of course, innovation doesn’t end at classroom design. Incorporate the concepts of 21^st century learning in the lessons that you present for your students, being sure to:

• Cultivate creativity
• Emphasize the learning process vs the end product
• Schedule time for discussion and reflection
• Customize learning for different types of learners
• Reinforce 21st century skills

Resources:

Room2learn is a peer-to-peer website designed to help you transform your classroom in the ways we’ve described above. Smithsonian Magazine describes this site as “Pinterest for classrooms.” It includes ideas, tips, blueprints, images, etc. One of the site creators says she is particularly proud of the flexible seating option.

Other Resources:

• A Classroom Architect website that lets you play with different designs
• A Pinterest board containing classroom organization and design tips
• Article from Getting Smart
• Article from the Learning Mind

Are you transforming classroom design at your school? Share your ideas and progress in our Comments section.