A new study backs up the notion that classroom design has a significant impact on the academic performance of primary school children.
Researchers at the University of Salford in the U.K., and architects, Nightingale Associates, found that the classroom environment can affect a child’s academic progress by as much as 25% in a year. The year-long study took place in seven Blackpool, England primary schools in 34 classrooms. The rooms had differing learning environments and several age groups were represented.
Data from 751 pupils included performance level in math, reading, and writing at the start and end of an academic year. Researchers also studied the holistic classroom environment including classroom orientation, natural light and noise, temperature, and air quality. Other factors included flexibility of space, storage facilities and organization, and use of color.
Researchers said the findings suggest that placing an average pupil in the least effective, rather than the most effective classroom environment could affect their learning progress by as much as the average improvement across one year. The study will continue for another 18 months and cover another 20 schools in different areas of the U.K.
Related Stories
Market Data | Dec 14, 2017
ABC chief economist predicts stable 2018 construction economy
There are risks to the 2018 outlook as a number of potential cost increases could come into play.
Market Data | Dec 11, 2017
Global hotel construction pipeline is growing
The Total Pipeline stands at 12,427 Projects/2,084,940 Rooms.
Market Data | Dec 11, 2017
Construction backlog surges, sets record in third quarter
CBI is a leading economic indicator that reflects the amount of construction work under contract, but not yet completed.
Market Data | Dec 7, 2017
Buoyed by healthy economy, ABC Index finds contractors upbeat
Despite rising construction labor and materials costs, 55% of contractors expect their profit margins to expand in the first half of 2018.
Industry Research | Nov 28, 2017
2018 outlook: Economists point to slowdown, AEC professionals say ‘no way’
Multifamily housing and senior living developments head the list of the hottest sectors heading into 2018, according a survey of 356 AEC professionals.
Architects | Nov 28, 2017
Adding value through integrated technology requires a human touch
To help strike that delicate balance between the human and the high-tech, we must first have an in-depth understanding of our client’s needs as well as a manufacturer’s capabilities.
Market Data | Nov 27, 2017
Construction's contribution to U.S. economy highest in seven years
Thirty-seven states benefited from the rise in construction activity in their state, while 13 states experienced a reduction in activity.
Market Data | Nov 15, 2017
Architecture Billings bounce back
Business conditions remain uneven across regions.
Market Data | Nov 14, 2017
U.S. construction starts had three consecutive quarters of positive growth in 2017
ConstructConnect’s quarterly report shows the most significant annual growth in the civil engineering and residential sectors.
Market Data | Nov 3, 2017
New construction starts in 2018 to increase 3% to $765 billion: Dodge report
Dodge Outlook Report predicts deceleration but still growth, reflecting a mixed pattern by project type.
