As we enter 2025 the education landscape continues to advance at a rapid pace. From further integration of technology to a focus on wellness and sustainability, this upcoming year is set to be no different when it comes to rapid progression within the industry.
Modular Design
Unsurprisingly, modular design will continue to be a huge focus in classroom design in 2025. Traditional layouts of rows and desks with teacher-fronted learning are still being avoided in favour of choosing furniture that can be rearranged to suit different configurations.
Utilising lightweight and moveable furniture such as the en core table by Spaceforme, is the perfect solution for different classroom arrangements - even in smaller spaces.
Spaceforme is dedicated to providing innovative and useful solutions within the ever-changing education industry, and the en core table is a perfect example of this. Inspired by the one-piece classroom chairs we have grown accustomed to seeing, our product designer set out to create a table with similar properties, allowing for easy cleaning, adjustable spaces and easy transport.
Student-centred and personalised learning
Just like moving away from the traditional layout in classrooms, the traditional teaching style of lecturing is being transformed into one that engages and involves students more effectively.
A student-centred approach focuses on the learning experience of the students, viewing them as active participants who have the capability to bring their own knowledge and ideas to the learning process, rather than as a blank canvas. It is also acknowledged that everyone has different learning styles and educators will do what they can to offer different options for various students, whether they prefer independent learning, group discussions or by completing an activity.
So, what are the benefits of adopting a student-centred approach?
Improved engagement - unlike the traditional lecturing structure, student-centred learning doesn't allow students to passively absorb information, or get distracted and begin to focus their minds elsewhere.
Increased motivation - learners are typically more motivated when they feel engaged, understanding that they are in charge of their own education and encouraging them to work hard to reach their goals.
Development of problem-solving skills - students who have the opportunity to take control of their own learning will be able to look at problems and brainstorm different solutions, rather than being presented with information.
Improved social skills - working in small groups or larger discussions will aid student's development in team building and social skills. Being thrown into discussing different topics with their peers and teachers has been shown to benefit communication skills and confidence in students, leading to increased positivity and better results on projects.
Health conscious design
In recent years there have been growing concerns about posture, especially in young learners. People are more aware of the potential of children to develop issues such as back pain, neck strain or muscular imbalances caused by long periods of sitting in improper positions or on unsuitable screen time. It is important to establish healthy postural habits in childhood that can continue into adulthood and help prevent future problems.
Designers will also consider different ways to create spaces that improve mental wellbeing, as well as physical. Proper ventilation and natural lighting have been proven to improve concentration and attention span and reduce absenteeism, as well as help to improve the immune system of students.
Bringing the outside world inside with the use of biophilic design in classrooms can also have a massive impact on children's learning and mental well-being. Biophilia is relatively easy to incorporate too, and it is a great activity to get students involved with, connecting them one step further to nature.
The Spaceforme team is excited about the year ahead and we are looking forward to helping our resellers and end users create the best educational spaces possible! Contact us today on 0333 123 2424 or at sales@spaceforme.co.uk.
