Incorporating Technology into the Physical Environment

The article I read was entitled "Designing Successful Technology-Rich Elementary Schools." This article was really interesting because the authors did not discuss how to incorporate technology use into the classroom through curriculum, but through physical means. Many studies have shown that the actual physical environment can either enhance or impede learning. This article is about a study being conducted with fifth graders and how they are physically placing computers and furniture into the classroom. This was a study about the ergonomics of the classroom. In the study they are looking at how to create a setting where computers are in arms reach of all children, but are not in the way or a distraction. Also in this study the designers are work with the teachers to discover what works best for the children and what the teachers prefer. It was a very interesting to read about every aspect of the room design they worked on. It ranged anywhere from carpeting to the desk size and the teacher placement in the classroom. It was nice to look at a slightly different topic related to technology.

I would have to say that I liked the article. I would probably give it a 4 out of 5. All the details that went into designing this classroom so it best worked for the students was very cool. I would be really interested in reading about the final results, since they were only two years through their study at the time this article was written.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/1999-02/HFaE-DSTE-010299.php