Optimizing Learning Part 1: Creating the Space to Learn
Part 1 in a series of strategies to enhance and optimize learning, whether virtual, in-person, or a combination
Whether you are a parent of a school-age child, a high school or college student, or an adult seeking out an educational or training program, there is no doubt that learning in 2020 looks very different. The COVID-19 pandemic led to school closures in many areas and an unplanned and frantic rush into virtual learning in the spring. Now, as we enter the fall, school districts, colleges and universities, and other educational institutions are all coming up with plans for teaching and learning that include virtual learning, in-person learning, or some combination of the two. In this series, I will provide tips to make learning productive, regardless of the particular modality, as well as ways to enhance studying and retention of information. In part 1, I am focusing on setting up an environment conducive to learning.
Setting Up the Space
Having a dedicated space for learning is ideal. Simply having a desk with the necessary supplies at hand has a number of benefits. For one, the space itself becomes associated with learning over time. A young child learns that he or she is expected to participate in some kind of learning activity when seated there. Similarly, an older student learns that this space is associated with focus and concentration. Having all of the required materials readily available reduces time spent locating pencils, paper, a stapler, etc. Distractions, such as a phone or the television, can be removed or minimized to the extent possible. Setting up a dedicated learning space sets the stage for focus and productivity. The learning space should include: a surface large enough to write or hold a computer, easy access to necessary materials (such as pencils, pens, paper, stapler/paper clips, folders, calculators, etc.) and reference materials (such as textbooks, dictionary, etc.), and a place to store materials when they are not in use. To the extent possible, it should be located away from potential distractions, such as the television, toys, or electronic devices that are not required for learning. Setting up a space at home if extremely beneficial for those doing virtual or hybrid learning; however, even those doing in-person learning need a space for doing homework and other projects.
Personalize the Space
Once you have the space set up, personalization helps to make it engaging and meaningful. A stark, utilitarian space may work, but it may not be particularly inviting or inspiring. If you are setting up a space for a child, incorporating some of their interests can be helpful. For example, hanging pictures of some of their favorite characters or getting pencils in their favorite color can help increase their motivation to learn in the space. Some teens and adults like to hang up inspirational pictures or quotes. Personalizing the space allows the child or adult to take ownership of the space and make it their own. The key is to make the space engaging and inviting to the person who will be using it.
Modifications/Adaptations
What if you don’t have the space for a dedicated learning space or you have multiple kids who need to work simultaneously? There are a number of modifications that you can try, even if you are in a small space.
Set up a small area or section of a room. You do not need a separate home office space to set up a learning space. As described above, the key components are a work surface, access to required materials, and a place to store materials. A small desk or table in the corner of a bedroom or living room may be sufficient. You can use the space under the table or desk to store materials when they are not being used. A simple plastic box with a lid can be used to contain materials and an expandable file folder can be used to hold papers and other materials and keep them separated by subject. You can also use the wall space. Hanging a shelf above the work area allows materials to be store there, instead of on the work surface, leaving more space to work. Space to work can be at a premium if you have more than one person who needs to use the space at the same time.
Use a multi-use space. While a specific, dedicated area for learning is ideal, it is not feasible or practical in many situations. In this case, the space used may also need to be used for other activities, such as a kitchen table or countertop. In this situation, timing will be very important. For example, it can be very distracting if one person is trying to do a lesson on the kitchen table, while other family members are having a meal at the same time. Therefore, setting up a routine and dedicated time that the space is to be used for learning will be necessary. That way, the space is only used for one purpose at a time. Materials can be kept in a plastic bin or a storage cart with wheels that can be brought to the work space during learning times. While the work space may not be able to be personalized since it is shared, personalizing the bin or storage cart can be an alternative.
The first step in enhancing learning is to set up a space that is conducive to learning, whether learning will be virtual, in-person, or some combination. The suggestions above can help in setting up this space. In the next installment of this series, I will present some tips for establishing a schedule and routine.
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