8. Positive Design Aspects

What Positive Aspects the SWAMP contains!

In this section, I examine some positive design issues of the learning space. Moreover, how the layout of the room creates positive emotional energy, which can be harness by the student, in their learning growth.

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Symmetrically Balanced:      As already mentioned earlier, the room is symmetrically balanced. As you can see on the sketch diagram of the room, tables are equally matched on each side of the walls, and also the center tables are symmetrical. 

Room Design

Why balance is important is the fact that our brains, when memorizing places finds it easy to store and process the meaning of a situation (Bertamini & Makin & Pecchinenda, 2013).  Therefore, by designing with repeated or symmetrical designs it reduces mental processing, and the place becomes more aesthetically pleasing.

I would guess sub-consciously it may form part of the way, I have found this learning space  a pleasant area to study and work within. Moreover, from my visits to the room, I also see the regular players sitting in their favorite spot, and would envisage they find the space also a safe and enjoyable area to work.

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Fresh-Air

Windows or Windowless: There has been various research into how classrooms which are either window or windowless, impact on students (Edwards & Torcllini, 2002, p.24). From the research, while there is no tangible proof of negative psychological effects on people using windowless rooms, it does have some mood effect on some people. For me, I prefer a room with a view, as it is relaxing and it keeps me attached to whats happening outside in the world. 

Yet, while this room has windows, some teachers in fact prefer windowless classrooms. This is because when teaching younger students, the outside view can become a distraction to student learning (Edwards & Torcllini, 2002, p.25).

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Paint-my-Wagon

Room Colour:  The walls are painted a Crimson Red. This shade of red indicates a determination to succeed, without being offensive or aggressive to others, around you (Kennis, 2012). It is also associated with giving confidence to the shy or those lacking in will power.  Therefore, having this type of colour within the learning space should produce positive emotional affects on the users of the room. 

While the colour scheme selected maybe acceptable to more space users, some users of similar trait and background may be affected differently, due in part to their, common physiological and psychological makeup  Tofle et al., 2004, p. 5). 

(There maybe an issue with this colour; as red is also a passionate and sensual visual colour, and therefore, sexual tension in a classroom can produce unwanted attention and distraction.)

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References:

Bertamini, M. &  Makin, A. & Pecchinenda, A. (2013). Visual and emotional analysis of symmetry. Journal of Vision, 13(9), doi: 10.1167/13.9.812

Edwards, L. & Torcllini, P. (2002). A Literature Review of the Effects of Natural Light on Building Occupants. NREL, 7(1), p.16-33

Kemmis, J. (2012). The Color Red. Retrieved from http://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-red.html

Tofle, R. B. (2004). Color in healthcare environments: A critical review of the research literature. San Francisco, CA: CHER.