Philosophy, Form and Function: Designing a 21st Century Learning Environment
This past summer, TLA Opened our new blended learning high school in Surrey, BC. The space included three large classrooms, a large multipurpose space, a library and multiple offices. This new space presented an opportunity to design a learning space that captures the mission and vision of our school. As a team, we had decisions to make as to how the form of the facility would serve a function that reflected our underlying education philosophy.
Predominant themes guiding our philosophy
Community-based learning - learning needs to take place in the context of community, which includes the home, classroom, neighbourhood and even online communities. The elements of human relationships cannot be replaced by technology.
Personalized learning - students should be presented with opportunities explore their own curiosities and develop expertise in certain areas. Our teachers play an important role in differentiating to address the different learning styles.
Technology enriched learning - As developments in technology are changing the face of educatioin, this has allowed for a shift from teacher-centric learning spaces towards a student-focused and technology enriched classroom.
Inquiry and Problem-based learning - Integrated cross-curricular inquiry learning and problem solvingg.
Blended/flipped learning - earning takes place in the online and face-to-face environment
*The image below represents a dynamic 21st century learning space.
How does my educational philosophy translate into the physical and digital learning environment?
Decentralized Physical Classroom Environment
Designated spaces for independent and group work, quiet spaces
Flexible, comfortabl furniture and classroom configurations
Space for physical movement
Classroom set of tablets, laptops, cameras etc.
Projector, interactive whiteboards for presentation of information etc.
Equipment for tactile learning
Digital and physical tools for creative expression
Natural elements of sunlight, green space, outdoor classroom etc.
Digital Learning Environment
The teacher maintains an online classroom space through a learning management system (Google Classroom, FreshGrade etc.)
Students are provided with flipped lessons prepared by the teacher
Students are given access to extensive online and library resources
Students utilize devices and digital tools to communicate and collaborate with other students, instructors and experts in the field
