Technological Factors Affecting Students Academic Performance

The Effect of the Physical Learning Environment on Teaching and Learning

Spanning all sectors in Victoria, schools have referenced research in their building design that suggests that particular architecture and design of learning spaces will contribute to effective teaching and improvements in student achievement. A number of these school were built in the 1970s and 80s. Others are planned over the next few years. In their current budget, the State government has promised a substantial investment in the building and refurbishment of government schools. This is likely to create much discussion about the best physical environment for effective teaching for student learning. In this topic we look at how research can inform and challenge our views about the effect of the physical learning environment on student achievement and teachers' work. This discussion starter aims to promote the sharing of teachers knowledge and experience on this important subject.

The physical environment and student achievement

Studies about student academic achievement and building condition conclude that the quality of the physical environment significantly affects student achievement. 'There is sufficient research to state without equivocation that the building in which students spends a good deal of their time learning does in fact influence how well they learn' (Earthman, G 2004:18). Desirable designs include having 'friendly and agreeable' entrance areas, supervised private places for students, as well as public spaces that foster a sense of community, with particular attention to the colour used (Fisher, K 2000 in McGregor, J 2004:2). Today's schools must create spaces that students want to go to, similar to the way cafes attract people, rather than the space being purely functional (Bunting, A 2004:12). Other research has acknowledged that 'student achievement lags in shabby school buildings' but go on to say that this research 'does not show that student performance rises when...