Redesigning Learning Spaces by unknow

Author:unknow
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Published: 2020-10-07T19:40:58.175797+00:00

Chapter 3 Shaping Learning-Space Change for the Community

In John Hardy’s 2010 TEDGlobal Talk, he shared with the world a “Green School Dream” for the future. Hardy’s dream became a reality in 2008 when he and his wife opened the Green School in Bali, Indonesia. The Green School was different from traditional schools because of its emphasis on design, environment, and a pedagogical connection to the learning space. The Green School’s vision, mission, and values all connect to the power of space.

The Green School vision, as stated at www.greenschool.org, “is of a natural, holistic, student-centered learning environment that empowers and inspires our students to be creative, innovative, green leaders.” This vision allows for all learners, both students and adults, to stay in tune with the beauty of the space that surrounds them.

They use this vision to propel their mission of “educating young leaders in global citizenship. . . . champion a new model of learning that connects the timeless lessons from nature to a relevant and effective preparation for a fast-changing future.”

With a clear vision and mission, the Green School was able to develop a common set of values that is seen throughout their dedication to learning embedded in their space. They “believe in three simple rules underlying every decision: be local; let your environment be your guide; and envisage how your grandchildren will be affected by your actions.”

The environment impacts and drives the curriculum at various levels of learning. Students use every inch of the interior and exterior space for learning experiences, places to collaborate, as well as opportunities to make and create.

When we share the story of the Green School in Bali with teachers, we usually get the same response: That’s nice, but we could never do that. We have limitations that keep us from overhauling the entire space to make a connection to the curriculum and learning as they have in Bali.

And they are right to think that.

So the question is, does that mean we forget about the impact learning-space design has on students, teachers, and the entire community?

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