Education has changed quickly in the age of technology. Not only are devices ever-present, but new ideas on teaching and learning seem to be produced every day. These ways of work reflect what it means to learn in the 21st century.
It’s time to look at your classroom and figure out whether it supports the kind of work you would like to be doing with your students.
For many, their classroom hasn’t changed since the school was built, which was somewhere in the last century. Heavy desks stay in rows because they can’t move without considerable effort. There aren’t enough outlets to power today’s technology needs, so students camp around any available plug. Presentation and technology options are limited to a TV and, perhaps, a DVD player.
But it doesn’t have to be this way, and making a move is easier than you think.
Media Technologies Alba Fin Mobile Tables and Elements Wall Cabinets
For example, bulky, cumbersome furniture is uncomfortable and not flexible enough to facilitate collaborative learning at a moment’s notice. Today’s students need to be able to switch from small groups to whole group to individual work – sometimes in the same class. That’s what they will be asked to do in the world of college and career.
Naturally, technology is now a key concern in classroom design. In an age where everyone has a handheld device (or several), furniture and equipment is available to provide hands-free operation, charging options, and device sharing throughout the classroom.
George I. Sanchez Collaborative Community School – Albuquerque, NM
These are only a few of the items you are looking for to make this ideal a reality:
- Caster chairs, desks, and tables that move around the room with ease.
- Furnishings such as charging carts that keep technology powered, safe and connected throughout the day.
- Furniture with contemporary design elements and soft seating that give the classroom an inviting feel, increasing student engagement.
It used to be that this level of transformation required a considerable, years-long investment in both financial and human resources, particularly in the planning stages. When you find the right partner, you can update each classroom individually as time and budgets allow. You won’t be left alone to make complicated decisions. Instead, you will have a knowledgeable staff at your disposal.
So feel free to dream big!
This article is a summary of “Are your classrooms outdated? Updating is the right move!” from our 2017 Projects by Design Idea Book.
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For assistance with classroom layouts and design, visit www.ProjectsByDesign.com.To contact us, please call 800-305-0174 or email projectsbydesign@schoolspecialty.com.
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