The physical classroom environment: a key to inclusion and student engagement

Abstract

The physical environment of the classroom has a significant impact on students. This impact is even more significant for students with learning difficulties. Understanding how the classroom environment impacts inclusion and engagement is an important aspect of creating schools that meet the needs of all students. Educators can benefit from having more insight and examples of evidence-based practices that help to create more engaging and inclusive classroom environments. This project focuses on various aspects of the physical environment and how they affect student engagement and inclusion, with the goal of answering the guiding question, “What do teachers need to know about how the physical classroom environment impacts student engagement and inclusivity?” A thorough literature review summarizes the most current studies related to the physical environment and its impact on students, specifically in the areas of classroom seating, arrangement, wall colour, and ambient conditions. The key take-aways from this literature review have been included in an educational website that I have developed for teachers. The website provides recommendations and evidence-based practices in simple, jargon-free language for educators. More detailed information related to the studies that support these recommendations has also been provided on the website.