Classroom design has changed little in decades, other than aesthetic improvements such as colour, better lighting and furniture. Although modern classrooms are now equipped with computers, projectors, screens, sound equipment and possibly cameras, scanners and so forth, fundamentally the design has remained unchanged. Indeed, in many instances, classrooms have been adapted to accommodate technology in ways that make the technology problematic to use e.g. power or network points positioned poorly, inadequate wireless coverage, poor seating options or desk arrangements.
Many Australian schools have implemented what they term “flexible learning spaces” - rooms specifically designed to allow for easily adaptable classroom layouts and situations. This has enhanced the openness of the traditional classroom. Flexible classroom spaces are set up with multiple points of vision, with practical chairs and with light furniture that is easily rearranged. They are superbly kitted in terms of technology and particularly so that the technology is easy to use. Many too are able to be easily adapted to form part of a larger venue.This presentation will be an informal presentation of some of the space design and attitudes experienced in Australia and will be presented by Sally Bowes from Bishops .
Centre of Educational Technology at the University of Cape Town.