Class Room Structure

The pupils spend most of their time in one space (the classroom); the built environment of the classrooms will have a great impact on pupils’ academic performance, health and wellbeing.

In particular there are specific requirements needed for children’s learning environments. These are light, sound, temperature, air quality. Each of the parameters has been individually researched. Natural light is known to regulate sleep/wake cycles. Children in classrooms with most day lighting and biggest windows progress faster in math and reading. Benefits of the experience of nature for children, owing to their greater mental plasticity and vulnerability.

Flexibility is needed to allow for different activities within the classroom and/or the needs of different users. When children feel ownership of the classroom, it appears the stage is set for cultivating feelings of responsibility . Classrooms and hallways that feature the products of students’ intellectual engagements—representations of academic concepts, projects, displays, and construction are also found to promote greater participation and involvement in the learning process.