VALUE OF ASSESSING PHYSICAL AND EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS
BY BRADLEY KIEHL , AIA , LEED AP , ALEP , DLR GROUP
Throughout my years of collaborating with districts on facility assessments , I very often see the same question arise : “ Does the physical space have any impact on our students ’ educational experience ?” This is an important question , and one that I feel confident in answering with a resounding , “ Yes !”
Whether we are designing a new facility or repurposing an existing one , we work to comprehensively address the depth and breadth of a district ’ s needs by considering the connection between a building ’ s physical environment , and its ability to meet the unique requirements of students and educators .
To ensure the physical environment aligns with a district ’ s learning objectives , we must perform indepth evaluations of both the physical environment and the learning environment . Coupled with flexibility , the outcome of using these criteria are next generation learning environments ideal for 21st century students .
Assessing the Physical Environment Experience has convinced me , and research confirms : the physical environment of school buildings impacts learning . When we look at a physical environment , we need to consider how the built either hinders or enhances a student ’ s educational experience . This includes considerations around :
• The age / life of the facility
• The facility location within the district and community
• Exterior and interior building conditions
• Heating , ventilation , and air conditioning ( HVAC )
• Plumbing and electrical Systems
• Site and interior circulation
• On-going maintenance costs
Assessing the Learning Environment Assessing a school facility goes beyond HVAC and circulation considerations . Over the last three decades , we ’ ve seen a significant movement away from static box classroom design to flexible spaces that allow for changing programs and enrollments ; as such , it ’ s critical that we look at the adaptability of a school ’ s existing spaces , and work to ensure any new spaces can provide spatial variety . These spaces should incorporate characteristics that encourage a move towards 21st century learning , including :
• A variety of color , lighting , shape , furniture and texture
• Adaptability to new technologies such as virtual or assisted realities
• Strong indoor / outdoor linkages that encourage a connection with nature
• Community partnerships that provide real-life opportunities for students learning
• Personalized spaces that create a sense of ownership in the school that allow for group or individual study and reflection
• Safe places designed to reduce threats for students and staff
• Public spaces that embrace the school community ’ s larger purpose to provide coherency and meaning to increase student achievement
A comprehensive facility assessment affords us a better understanding of how , when educational adequacy works in tandem with the physical environment , our designs can support learning in multiple facets and spatial configurations , and ultimately enhance the educational experience for every learner and educator .
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TASBO REPORT | AUG 2017