The concept of the “third teacher” in a classroom is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to education. This approach emphasizes the environment as a crucial component of the learning experience, and it considers the physical space as a “third teacher” alongside the actual educators and peers. The idea is that the design and organization of the learning environment can significantly impact students’ engagement, curiosity, and overall learning experience.
When it comes to the physical space of a classroom building serving as the “third teacher,” 5 key principles are considered:
1. **Lighting: ** Natural light is preferred, as it creates a more pleasant and stimulating atmosphere.
2. **Layout and Organization: ** The arrangement of furniture, learning materials, and spaces within the classroom should be flexible, intentional and promote exploration. Different areas of the room can be designated for specific purposes, such as reading corners, collaborative workspaces, and quiet zones.
3. **Incorporation of Biophilia: ** Bringing elements of nature into the classroom, such as plants or views of the outdoors, can contribute to a calming and enriching environment. Color choice and textures play a (subliminal) role in one’s ability to focus and help reduce anxiety and blood pressure.
4. **Accessibility and Choice: ** The design of the classroom should consider the diverse needs of students, including those with physical disabilities. An inclusive space allows for equal participation and engagement by all students. Furthermore, not everyone learns the same and students should be allowed to decide if they sit or stand (so they can properly focus.)
5. **Technology Integration: ** The incorporation of technology into the classroom should be seamless and purposeful. The layout should support the use of digital tools and resources without overwhelming the learning space.
Why stop there! Immersive Virtual Reality & AI will catapult the learner into a new dimension and “physically” take the learner into the subject matter.
But if I can hammer home one point, it is to change the room from being learner centered to being learning centered.
Involving students in the design and organization of the classroom can empower them and foster a sense of ownership over their learning environment and builds curiosity, creativity, and collaboration among students.
Let’s create an active learning environment…. Let TeamPAR create a pilot classroom for you so you can see how we can support students and educators to reach new heights with choice and a sense of belonging.