How Classroom Furnishings Can Delineate Learning Zones
December 17, 2015
The “Impacting Student Outcomes through Architecture & Design” was presented at the Florida Educational Facilities Planners’ Association conference. The Q&A with Sean and Steve that follows includes key highlights from that valuable presentation.
Computer Labs: Dead or Just Dying for Modern Makeover?
September 15, 2015
Most schools have two choices when it comes to computer labs. Denounce them as dead (or dying) or turn a drab lab into an engaging dream lab that inspires active learning for 21st Century learners.
5 Pieces of Classroom Furniture
July 16, 2015
In education, a top priority is creating the “perfect storm” for optimum learning. It’s no surprise then that design experts list classroom furniture as the first ingredient in the mix. This blog explains how just five pieces of K-12 furniture can transform a classroom into an inspired learning spa
How to Hatch the Perfect Classroom Chair
May 14, 2015
With so much at stake, where does designing a new classroom chair begin? How does a team effectively blend the ergonomics, aesthetics, engineering and economics of today – not to mention, academics! – with tomorrow’s influences?
5 Activity Tables To Enhance Your Learning Environment
March 21, 2015
In any classroom, learning scenarios and circumstances constantly change, so versatility in furnishings is key. One of the most versatile furnishings is the activity table, which come in a variety of different shapes, sizes and heights.
STEM’s Influence On Classroom Design
March 11, 2015
Next, get a sense of the type of STEM (or STEAM) program your school will implement initially. Or, if you already have a STEM program, how do you want it to grow? Let the method and scope of STEM teaching drive classroom layout. STEM can be taught in only one classroom or one subject, such as math or science, or it can be taught closely integrated, with teachers
How to Launch a Charter School – SCHOOL IS CLOSING
February 19, 2015
Two of us teachers started doing Genius Hour in our classrooms. Genius Hour is inspired by Google’s 20% projects where their employees have the freedom to work on their own creative projects 20% of the time, as long as the projects benefit the company. We wanted to give our students an opportunity to own their learning and research and create their own projects. We would always say, “What if we had our own school? We would do this or do that differently or better.”
Kids Are Crazy for Coding
December 8, 2014
Whoever thought coding – and the people who do it – would be, well, cool? Educators are scrambling to catch-up. That means training teachers, finding resources, and building coding into classroom plans.
A Standing Ovation for Stand-Up Learning
October 21, 2014
“When I first started talking about standing desks two years ago, people were shocked. But when I describe the benefits of using these desks to boost classroom performance and combat kids’ sedentary lifestyles, school administrators say, ‘It makes sense. Let’s do that.’”
Classroom Technology: Too Much or Not Enough?
October 20, 2014
The million-dollar question is how much is too much, or in some cases, when is a greater technology presence needed? The quick answer is, there is no answer. A Google search stirs up no shortage of valid voices representing all sides of the debate. Some educators boast the benefits of total technology immersion; equipping kids with modern-day tools is critical. Others make convincing arguments about the dangers of technology in K
Maker’s Mark – How “Making” Is Influencing STEM Education
October 1, 2014
To understand the global impact of The Maker Movement, look no further than The Home Depot. In August, the world’s largest home improvement retailer launched a pilot program with MakerBot to sell its 3D printers and scanners at 12 stores in California, Illinois and New York.
What Do Students Want in a 21st Century School Library?
September 5, 2014
All research points to creating K-12 libraries that are energetic, inviting space filled with students who are busy gathering information and exchanging ideas.