There have been some big changes in education spaces over the last few years. One of the fastest growing trends throughout education has been the increasing use of mobile devices in the classroom. For instance, laptops and tablets, which substitutes traditional resources. However, being “technology rich” does not automatically mean that students will be sharing and interacting any more than they would using pen and paper. Therefore, collaborative furniture is important in these learning spaces.
Collaborative Furniture In Learning Spaces
Furniture that integrates, facilitates and promotes technology, is essential for collaborative interactions. Additionally, they are pivotal to the experience. Education spaces with furniture designed for collaboration will increase students interest or motivation to learn. This is because, they can choose their desired method of collaboration. Any connectable device can be achieved, by using furniture designed with technology in mind. For instance, the TOP-TEC Collaborative Furniture Range.
In order to stay fresh and connected, educators are having to adapt the way in which they teach. The student population has technology and instant access to information in everyday life. Therefore, it is important to motivate students, facilitate problem solving, information gathering and self-driven learning. Rather than spoon-feeding them knowledge.
Creating Blended Education Spaces
Many universities have already adapted existing spaces. Or, created new ones specifically for collaborative/blended learning. This is opposed to individual classrooms or traditional lecture theatres. For instance, we worked on a project for Newcastle University who were keen to move away from traditional pedagogies. Newcastle wanted to develop an innovative learning space that encouraged collaborative activities for students. They wanted small groups to work on a variety of tasks including, problem solving and preparation of presentations, all of which could be facilitated by ICT.
Furthermore, a number of departments had to combine their spaces. This was in order to transform the first floor into an innovative, collaborative learning space, the ‘Herschel Learning Lab’. The lab had a capacity of 120 students and was fitted with TOP-TEC SYNERGY Plectrum and Folding shaped tables. Our SYNERGY tables support a variety of teaching spaces and methodologies. In addition, they provide greater flexibility than standard lecture spaces. The tables integrate AV/IT equipment and power connectivity options for different and multiple devices. This creates an immersive and interactive way of teaching that increases academic engagement. As well as, enhances the student experience. You can read the full case study here (insert link to case study).
If you are interested in creating a more engaging learning space that facilitates the use of technology, please speak to a member of our team today. Call us on 0121 783 3838, alternatively get in touch via sales@top-tec.co.uk.
You may also be interested in our previous blog post on blended learning Collaboration and Technology Improve students’ learning experience.