A study of interactive learning spaces within educational facilities

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Interior Design Department, College of Art and Design, October University for Modern Sciences & Arts, Egypt

Abstract

Learning takes place in spaces that are not limited to the classroom, as it
is a process that occurs everywhere within the educational facility,
starting from the classroom to the corridors, roads, etc. The learning
spaces within the educational facilities are classified into formal and 
informal learning spaces. The official learning space is the space that 
is used according to regular official appointments, and these spaces 
vary to include classes, lecture halls, laboratories, ceremonies, ... etc. 
There are several factors that affect the design of formal learning 
spaces, including: The development in pedagogy: The pedagogy has 
witnessed a shift towards active learning and collaborative learning, 
and teaching methods vary according to the need of the scientific 
subject, which results in arranging the semester according to the 
teaching method followed. . New students' qualities and habits:
Understanding students ’characteristics and habits helps in designing 
and developing learning spaces. There are five important features for 
new students that must be taken care of and taken into account: 
digital, mobile, independence, social, and participatory. Rapid
development in educational communication technology: It means all
digital and non-digital devices, devices, software and media that are 
integrated into the education process. Education technologies can be 
divided into three categories, namely, virtual technologies, installed
devices, and mobile devices. The tendency towards the human being at
the center of design: through concern for some features, including: 
health (which includes: physical comfort - good lighting - acoustics -
indoor air quality), motivation (through attention to sensory signals -
contact with nature, various color shapes), adaptation ( Through flexibility - sufficient space - portable display - connection to various 
information - Informal learning space is a space inside the educational 
facility that allows students to practice and discuss academic work 
without committing to official deadlines. The spaces that represent
informal learning spaces are varied and include: outdoor space,
corridors, lobbies and lounges, coffee shop, and library. There are 
factors that affect the success of informal learning spaces, including: 
Spaces conform to the needs of learners. Achieving a balance
between society and isolation. Stimulus . Availability of technology
and ease of contact with information. . Adaptation.

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