RESEARCH SUMMARIE THREE

Title

Planning to Learn: The Role of Interior Design in Educational Settings

PUBLICATION TYPE

Peer Reviewed Journal Article

Design Issue

The purpose of this research study was to determine how an educational space can be improved to make all the users of the space happier and more engaged in the activities that they participate in. Through this study, interior design students determined that children’s performance levels were directly linked to the quality of the structure. They also analyzed how sensory stimulation can enhance and distract from the learning process. As architects and designers continue to construct educational facilities, elements like visual, tactile, and auditory senses must be evaluated in the beginning. If elements that effect the physical environment of educational spaces are not considered through the eyes of all its users; there is a higher likelihood that learning barriers will form, and compensation techniques will be utilized. Therefore, it is the role of the designers to develop a deeper understanding of how a classroom environment can affect a child’s development.

Methods

This study was centered around interior design students developing a project that would improve the learning environment of a private catholic school in Manhattan, Kansas. Students utilized evidence-based design to develop an effective design program. They also conducted interviews with all the users of the space, participated in additional research about the subject, preformed field measurements, and developed design solutions based on their programming.

Findings

Through this study, interior design students found that wear and tear of materials, circulation, accessibility, code compliance, and functionality were all major issues within the space. Individuals were concerned about the durability of elements and the possibility that the wear of materials could causing harm. Designing spaces that stand the test of time and can withstand wear is very important within educational facilities because they often utilize the space for numerous years without renovations. Safety and security were concerns that were also brought up by almost every facility member. Making sure that locks, security systems, accessible doors, and glass types are all up to code is vital to the children’s safely. Additionally, elements such as the acoustic and visual environment were also found to have a major impact on the children’s engagement level. By incorporating color, light, and texture into their visual environment, children were more likely to enjoy coming to these spaces. Over the course of this project and study, students determined that educational settings can be changed in a positive manner if designer return to the basic idea of what it is like to learn something for the first time.