RESEARCH-BASED IMPROVEMENTS
Links to Nature Sound Naturalness Light Temperature
Individualization
Air Quality
Level of Stimulation
Classroom Design
Color Complexity Ownership
& Pupil Learning Results of a holistic, multi-level analysis
Links to Nature – Natural views and outdoor access
Flexibility Connection
A study, conducted across 157 classrooms in 27 schools, reveals a 16% impact of school design on pupil learning rates.
Personal Displays by Children – Student work, constructions
Sound – Noise disturbances from traffic or hallway
Furniture – Comfortable, supportive of learning & teaching
Natural Daylight – Large windows, oriented away from direct light to reduce glare and temperature interference
Room Layout – Well-defined zones: greater number and play-based for younger students
Electric Light – Adequate, high-quality lighting with control
Room Size – larger rooms, more varied shapes for younger students
Sun Heat – Control over sun heat
Room & Display Diversity – Intermediate; not under-stimulating or overstimulating
Temperature Control – Consistent, easily controlled temperature
Wall & Classroom Color – Light, warm colors with bright elements (furniture, carpet, displays)
Ventilation (to reduce CO2) – adequate ventilation, either mechanical or through window opening
Connection – Wide hallways with clear wayfinding
Unique & Child-Centered Design – novel character of the room, personalized spaces for each child
« no correlation found in study 7
www.FerndaleSchools.org
