Classroom Decor

Has anyone experimented with the physical classroom environment to increase student learning and interest in the content? If school was more like Starbucks, would students learn more? If I could create a comfortable, inviting space, would the students be more likely to learn or goof off? Everything I've looked at is mostly for elementary-age students and doesn't even consider the fact that we are dealing with real human beings who may not enjoy sitting in a cold, hard chair for a 90-minute block, surrounded by concrete walls and really bad lighting.

Any experience or thoughts?

Tags: Starbucks, classroom, environment, learning, student

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Comment by Brian on March 24, 2008 at 9:29pm: Jarrod--you're one of the few who think like this. Both my daughters despaired of the classrooms in middle and high school and would often say, "Why can't they be interesting teachers like elementary?" Posters seem to be the decoration of choice. Even though I was elementary, I always tried to make my classroom look like a museum walk-through where students wanted to explore. Parents told me over and over how much their kids liked the classroom and always felt relaxed and ready to get to work. I wish you great luck and your students are blessed to have you as their teacher.

Comment by Helen Otway on March 25, 2008 at 2:56pm: Hi Jarrod,
I have had a play with setting up my classroom so it i a bit more comfy. I have had cushions, beanbags, rugs and couch and recliner all in my room. Check out my page to see a photo of my room. Kids even painted their own tables!

Comment by Jane Krauss on March 25, 2008 at 3:52pm: To explore one facet of your interesting question I suggest you examine the communities and conversations Linda Hartley has started relating to the classroom environment. She hosts the Classroom Displays photosharing group on Flickr, her associated Classroom Displays Blog, and Her own erudite blog Acting to Improve.