Research has shown that the design of learning spaces significantly influences student interaction and engagement. For instance, Walker & Baepler (2017) developed the Social Context and Learning Environments (SCALE) survey to measure social relations in new classroom spaces, providing empirical evidence on the importance of design in learning outcomes. Other studies (Brooks, 2012; Walker, Brooks & Baepler, 2011) highlight how variations in spatial configuration impact instructor and student behavior.

Best Practices in Designing for Active Learning

Active learning spaces are intentionally designed to facilitate interaction, collaboration, and student-centered learning. Key features include:

• Flexible Seating and Moveable Furniture – Allows for quick reconfiguration based on the activity (e.g., group work, discussions, presentations).
• Technology Integration – Incorporates smartboards, projectors, screens, and individual or shared student devices to enhance engagement.
• Multiple Writing Surfaces – Whiteboards or writable walls encourage brainstorming and active participation.
• Round Tables or Small Group Clusters – Encourages peer learning and reduces instructor-centered teaching.

Adapting Fixed Learning Spaces

Many instructors teach in traditional classrooms that were not designed for active learning. However, small changes can significantly improve student engagement:

• Rearranging Furniture – If possible, adjust seating arrangements to foster collaboration. Even minor shifts in desk or chair placement can encourage group work and make interactions easier.
• Utilizing Hallways, Common Areas, or Outdoor Spaces – Moving beyond the classroom can create a dynamic learning experience. Hallways and lounge areas can serve as breakout discussion zones, while outdoor spaces can provide fresh air and reduce the constraints of a fixed environment.
• Portable Whiteboards or Large Sticky Notes – Can compensate for a lack of built-in writable surfaces. These allow students to brainstorm and visualize concepts anywhere in the classroom.
• Encouraging Movement – Implement activities where students shift roles or groups within the space. Examples include:
  • Gallery Walks – Where students move to different stations to engage with content.
  • Think-Pair-Share Rotations – Students discuss with one partner, then rotate to another peer for continued conversation.
  • Standing Meetings or Discussions – Encouraging students to stand or move during certain activities can enhance focus and engagement.
  • Role-Playing and Simulation Exercises – Allowing students to physically move and act out scenarios helps reinforce learning concepts.
  • Walking Debates – Where students move to different sides of the room to represent different viewpoints and then discuss their reasoning.
• Maximizing Limited Space – When working with a small or rigid classroom layout, instructors can:
  • Use vertical space by placing whiteboards or posters on walls.
  • Create multi-use zones (e.g., corners for group work or reading nooks).
  • Implement collapsible desks or mobile furniture that can be rearranged when needed.
  • Use digital tools for collaborative work if physical movement is constrained.
• Making the Space More Inviting – Small environmental adjustments can improve engagement, such as:
  • Adjusting lighting for a comfortable ambiance.
  • Adding plants or artwork to create a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Providing comfortable seating options, like cushions or standing desks.
  • Playing soft background music during independent work to reduce anxiety and increase focus.

The Impact of Environmental Design Features

Physical factors such as lighting, color, temperature, and noise levels can significantly influence students’ ability to focus and retain information.

• Lighting – Natural light has been shown to improve student performance and well-being. Adjustable lighting levels can enhance focus for different tasks.
• Color Psychology – Certain colors can stimulate learning; for example, blue and green promote concentration, while warmer colors can energize the space.
• Temperature and Air Quality – A comfortable temperature range (around 68–72°F) and good ventilation improve cognitive function.
• Noise Control – Background noise should be minimized to prevent distractions; acoustic panels or carpeting can help absorb excess sound.

Innovative Learning Spaces and Emerging Trends

As education continues to evolve, institutions are experimenting with cutting-edge classroom designs:

• SCALE-UP Classrooms – Originally developed at North Carolina State University, these spaces eliminate traditional lecture formats in favor of team-based problem-solving (Baepler, Brooks & Walker, 2014).
• Hybrid and HyFlex Classrooms – Designed to accommodate both in-person and remote learners, ensuring greater accessibility.
• Outdoor Learning Environments – Utilizing gardens, courtyards, and campus green spaces for experiential learning.

The design of learning spaces profoundly influences how students engage with content, instructors, and peers. Whether through large-scale classroom redesigns or small-scale adaptations, thoughtful consideration of physical environments can enhance student learning experiences. By applying best practices, leveraging technology, and making strategic environmental adjustments, educators can create more effective and inclusive learning spaces that align with the principles of active learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).