Elements of an Engaging Learning Space

Learning spaces can take many forms, whether it be in a traditional classroom setting, non-academic environment, or a digital platform, there are certain ways to create engaging spaces for students to succeed and take ownership of their learning. In order for this to happen, I strongly believe that a learning space should offer the following:

1. Clear communication and expectations
2. Room for discussion and collaboration
3. Space for individual exploration
4. Accessible resources and materials

In combination, these elements promote an authentic experience for students to engage with one another and further their learning through active discussion and exploration. I’ve experienced many classroom situations like these within studio art settings. The nature of the studio environment generally promotes individual exploration within a community of students, offering plenty of room for open dialogue between students and instructor to learn from one another. It is very possible to recreate these conditions within a variety of formats outside of the studio environment, but would manifest differently depending on the physical or digital format of the course.  I am excited to see the challenges and opportunities to promote engagement within the hybrid classroom structure.