Ample Space
Overview
By arranging the classroom to have ample space for everyone, teachers can also create a positive, safe, and emotionally supportive learning environment.
- Through small modifications, like clustering tables as small group learning centers and creating multipurpose spaces for flexible use, teachers can redesign classrooms with ample space. The extra space allows teachers to easily switch between meeting with students individually, having small groups, or working as a whole class. This space for movement supports student engagement, collaboration, and development of Social Awareness & Relationships Skills.
Use It in the Classroom
Watch how this elementary teacher redesigned her classroom to create an environment conducive to learning. By structuring the room with open spaces and pathways, students can move and have the flexibility to choose where they learn.
Design It into Your Product
Learn how platforms like Google Classroom allow students to connect with other students and their teachers in the digital space. Since students and teachers have access to each other’s work, they are able to share and collaborate more easily.
Learn More
- Explore the Teaching for Collaboration & Creativity subtopic on the Digital Promise Research Map.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Physical Space Strategies
Dim or natural lighting provides a calming environment.
Having quiet space where students can go supports Self-Regulation.
Multiple tables and chairs on wheels allow for setting up the classroom to support the desired learning outcomes of each classroom activity.
Multiple display spaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.
Multiple writing surfaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.
Decreasing extra audio input provides a focused learning environment.
Books for vision differences support reading development for learners with visual needs.
Books of varying complexity and reading levels are necessary for all students to experience reading success.
Multicultural and Primary Language books are critical for supporting all students.
With rhyming and creative word use, poetry is a genre that supports the development of early literacy skills in particular.
Books with SEL topics, such as developing friendships and identifying emotions, help teach these skills.
Providing ways for students to adjust sound level supports individual auditory needs.
Providing ways for students to meet their individual temperature needs supports focus and Self-Regulation.
Spaces that are structured, organized, and clean provide calming environments.
