Learning spaces

ICT enables schools to create physical and virtual learning spaces. Good design of physical learning spaces and effective use of ICT can maximise student learning. The learning environment includes:

the physical space and furniture
the ICT available and in use
the teaching practice undertaken.

This section outlines how physical space and access device (computer) options are broadly related to teaching practice and describes different examples of ICT learning spaces.

Principles

When determining what hardware and technology to use, consider how current teaching practice and the available space can support:

active and interactive participation
collaborative project work
personalised learning
information retrieval and sharing
discussion and presentation
teacher and student-led activities
connection with community experts,
local and global networks.

Guiding principles for good learning spaces include:

flexibility—multiple users and uses
collaboration—cooperative learning and teamwork
creativity—engagement in the learning space
efficiency—cost-effective sustainable amenities
inclusiveness—accessible for all, for personalised learning.

Considerations

Schools are made up of various spaces—libraries, science labs, classrooms, schoolyards. Some can be changed around and others cannot. Each space has a different purpose, so each may use technology differently. An e-learning plan takes into account the differences in learning spaces and helps to guide decisions about how to set up and use the different learning spaces.

The following questions need to be answered when determining how to use learning spaces:

Where are the computers placed and stored? If the computers are mobile, how are they moved?
How are computers allocated? Does the learning space make it easy for students and teachers to decide to use ICT?
Is the learning space wired or wireless? How does this affect the type of use?
Are the access devices fixed or mobile? What does that mean for group or individual work?
What furniture is in the learning space? How does it affect teaching and learning?
What infrastructure changes are required for each option?

Examples

The examples of ICT learning spaces discussed here are:

The examples of learning spaces assume a school-wide student to computer ratio of 1:2. The Guide does not address a student to computer ratio of 1:1, where students have a specific computer for every class. Where the Guide refers to a ratio of 1:1, it relates to individual use of shared devices that are allocated for a lesson or a course. These computers are then used by other students in other lessons.

When planning ICT implementation, schools should give consideration to the objectives set out in their e-learning plans and ICT strategic plan. The examples given here are designed to help schools think about ways of reaching those objectives. They are not recommendations and do not constitute a complete analysis.

Use this information to:

decide on the relevance and usefulness of ICT applications in meeting particular learning outcomes
select and apply appropriate hardware to suit the needs of learners and the learning context
decide on the appropriate use of ICT in the spaces available.