Inclusive and engaging learning environments

Transforming classrooms with nature, design, and inclusivity

Our innovation addresses the critical need for inclusive and engaging classroom environments. By integrating flexible furniture, exploration corners, natural materials, plants, and thoughtful lighting, we create spaces that enhance sensory experiences, foster independence, and promote calmness. These environmental changes significantly improve student behavior and academic outcomes.

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Overview

Information on this page is provided by the innovator and has not been evaluated by HundrED.

Web presence

2023

Established

200

Children

2

Countries

Target group

Community

Updated

July 2024

I aim to foster a transformative shift towards more sustainable and sensory-rich learning environments. By integrating nature indoors, increasing outdoor learning opportunities, and utilizing natural resources, I envision schools becoming greener, more inclusive spaces that enhance student well-being and learning outcomes. Ultimately, I aspire to be a global consultant, supporting schools worldwid

About the innovation

Why did you create this innovation?

I created this innovation to transform learning environments into inclusive and engaging spaces. Recognizing the impact of classroom design on student well-being and learning outcomes, I aimed to address the need for environments that support sensory development, foster independence, and promote calmness.

What does your innovation look like in practice?

My innovation involves redesigning classrooms with flexible furniture that allows for versatile learning setups. We integrate natural materials and plants to enhance sensory experiences and create exploration corners for students to engage actively. Thoughtful lighting contributes to a calming atmosphere. These changes are supported by research-based methods and workshops that empower educators to reimagine their spaces effectively.
Evidence shows improved student behavior and academic performance in environments designed this way. While not reliant on proprietary technology, our approach leverages evidence-based design principles and practical workshops to guide implementation.

How has it been spreading?

Over this past year, our solution has gained traction in educational settings, notably in the Netherlands where IPS Hilversum has served as my testing ground. Achievements include successful Professional Development Workshops and positive feedback from educators and students alike. Goals for the future include expanding implementation across more schools in Europe, fostering collaboration with educational institutions and design professionals if it’s possible.

If I want to try it, what should I do?

To adopt my solution, educators and schools can start by contacting me by email carla.dabau@gmail.com and we will assess together in a face call their current learning environments and identify areas for improvement. I can provide guidance on redesigning spaces effectively. For more information and to get started, they can check my Instagram account @Carladabaup .

Implementation steps

Initial Assessment Objective: Evaluate the current learning environment to identify areas for improv

-Conduct a walkthrough: Observe the classroom layout, furniture, lighting, and materials used.
-Gather feedback: Talk to teachers and students to understand their needs and preferences.
-Document findings: Take notes and photos to capture the current state of the classroom.

Planning and design Objective: develop a comprehensive redesign plan based on the assessment.

Define Goals: Set specific objectives, such as enhancing sensory experiences, promoting independence, or improving student behavior.
-Create a layout plan: Sketch a new layout incorporating flexible furniture, exploration corners, and natural elements.
-Select materials: Choose natural materials, plants, and thoughtful lighting solutions that align with the goals.

Flexible furniture setup Objective: Install versatile furniture that supports various learning setup

Acquire furniture: Source flexible, movable furniture such as modular desks, adjustable chairs, and storage units.
Arrange furniture: Configure the furniture to allow for different learning activities, ensuring easy reconfiguration.

Integration of natural materials and plants Objective: Enhance the sensory experience through natura

-Select materials: Choose natural materials for surfaces, such as wooden desks or cork boards.
-Add plants: Integrate a variety of indoor plants that are easy to maintain and non-toxic.
-Position plants: Place plants strategically to improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere.

Creation of exploration corners Objective: Provide dedicated spaces for hands-on learning and discov

Identify Areas: Select corners or specific zones within the classroom for exploration activities.
-Design exploration zones: Equip these areas with educational materials, sensory toys, and natural objects.
-Encourage engagement: Ensure these corners are inviting and encourage students to explore and interact independently.

Implementation of thoughtful lighting Objective: Use lighting to create a calming and conducive

Assess Current Lighting: Evaluate the existing lighting and identify areas that need improvement.
-Install lighting solutions: Use a mix of natural light, LED lamps, and task lighting to create a balanced and adjustable lighting setup.
-Adjust lighting levels: Ensure lighting can be dimmed or brightened based on different activities and times of day.

OPTIONAL Training and empowerment Obj: Knowledge and skills to maintain and adapt the new environ.

-Conduct workshops: Organize professional development workshops focused on evidence-based design principles and practical implementation.
-Provide resources: Share guides, checklists, and templates to help educators sustain the redesigned spaces.
-Offer ongoing support: Maintain communication with educators to address challenges and provide continuous improvement advice.