Modern life has become more and more digital, so it makes sense that the classroom is growing more and more technological. Not to say that educational staff has abandoned tried and true educational practices, but they do use technology more often than ever before. How the campus plans to use technology is a major factor in educational construction.
Technology
More and more teachers are incorporating technology into the classroom from pre-K through 12th grade and on into college. The architectural design of the classroom needs to account for the growing use of technology prior to educational construction. Teachers use more computers, tablets and smart boards for an interactive classroom and learning experience. Online schools and classes are more common than ever taking advantage of the internet and use of computers to accomplish many class assignments.
Design
With technology being more used both in and outside the classroom, it is important for architects to consult the teachers and administration to see how they plan to use technology. Some staff prefers computers right in the classroom. Others may prefer a separate computer lab with the use of tablets and smart boards in the classroom. Still, others may prefer a handful of computers between adjacent classrooms for a collaborative environment. How the educational staff uses technology determines the number and type of outlets, electrical cables and the number of internet connections needed in each given room.
Investment
Technology is often seen as an investment in the future for educational learning. When planning a school design, architects should look to the future use as much as current use. Schools cost millions of dollars to build and most districts prefer to have some room for growth when building. Accounting for future technology use can help the school adjust to changing trends without rebuilding.
The use of technology is only expected to grow in the coming years. Educational architectural design can help classrooms accommodate the growing trends for collaborative and innovative learning.…