Source: de Borba, G.S., Alves, I.M. & Campagnolo, P.D.B. (2020) “How Learning Spaces Can Collaborate with Student Engagement and Enhance Student-Faculty Interaction in Higher Education”. Innovative Higher Education 45, 51–63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10755-019-09483-9
Criteria for selection: This mixed-methods article is based on a space’s flexibility, its ability to support student engagement and interaction, its level of technological connectivity, and its overall effectiveness in enhancing active learning experiences.
LEARN Brief and Infographic Credits: Jeannie Haubert, Ph.D., Ashlea Sovetts, MFA
Overview:
The article examines how classroom design influences student engagement and student–faculty interaction. Using a design driven approach focused on flexibility, interaction, and connectivity, the authors created and implemented new learning space prototypes in 96 classrooms. A mixed-methods evaluation involving over a thousand students showed that well-designed physical learning environments significantly enhance engagement and strengthen connections between students and instructors, supporting more active learning.
Key Insights:
- Teacher influence is the strongest driver of student engagement: With students consistently viewing the instructor’s inspiration, presence, and encouragement as central to their participation in learning.
- Physical classroom space significantly enhances engagement: As flexible layouts, movable furniture, and well-designed environments promote comfort, interaction, and alignment with different course needs—supported by strong positive associations in the quantitative data.
- Classroom flexibility increases interaction: With students reporting more group work, discussions, and professor–student dialogue when rooms allow quick reconfiguration, use of walls, and multiple activity types.
- Effective use of space and technology supports active learning: As students value accessible technological tools, collaborative surfaces, and environments that reduce hierarchy and foster shared, meaningful learning experiences.
Action Steps:
- Prioritize faculty development in active teaching strategies and space use: Ensure instructors are equipped to inspire, engage, and facilitate interaction, since teacher influence is the strongest engagement factor.
- Redesign classrooms for flexibility: Incorporate movable chairs, adaptable layouts, and multiple configuration options (i.e., circles, U-shapes, small groups) to support various learning activities.
- Increase the use of interactive physical elements: Such as whiteboard walls and collaborative surfaces, by explicitly encouraging and guiding students to use them during class activities.
- Ensure technology and connectivity are easily accessible and well-integrated: To provide reliable tools (i.e., laptops, video conferencing) that enhance interaction and support active, student-centered learning.
Full Study:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10755-019-09483-9#Sec11
