Open Shared Learning Spaces
At the Dream Academy, our learning spaces are designed with a specific workflow. These four different types of spaces determine not only how the space is configured, but also what kind of equipment is available in the space. In the broader scope, these spaces allow our faculty and students to interact in much more collaborative and efficient ways than what traditional learning spaces provide.
The design of the Open Shared Learning spaces is an adaptation of the work of Stephen Harris, of Northern Beaches school in Sydney, Australia. The names and functions of the learning spaces below are an adaptation of the work of Professor David Thornburg and their implementation by Elim Christian School, in Auckland, New Zealand.
The design of the Open Shared Learning spaces is an adaptation of the work of Stephen Harris, of Northern Beaches school in Sydney, Australia. The names and functions of the learning spaces below are an adaptation of the work of Professor David Thornburg and their implementation by Elim Christian School, in Auckland, New Zealand.
This space represents the ratio of one to many. It is designed to support lectures and student presentations. A large screen with multiple forms of screen sharing is available, and amphitheater seating provides room for the entire grade level. This space is also often used for small group re-teaching and teaching break out sessions for sub-groups.
This space represents the ratio of one to a small group. It is designed to support role defined, structured collaboration. For PBL, students are provided white board tables, and table screens for screen sharing to accommodate small group collaboration. Areas in this space also have some specialized shared equipment stations, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, VR equipment, cutting and gluing, and other arts and crafts equipment.
This space represents the ratio of many to many. It is designed to support open, non-structured collaboration. This area mimics a coffee shop setting, complete with arranged drinks and snacks. However, it is also equipped with smaller white board areas where pairs or small groups can collaborate over an idea. This area is often also used for one on one teacher to student assistance.
This space represents the ratio of one to self. It is designed to support reflection and long term creation. The Dream Academy is a 1:1 computing school, with wifi available in all buildings. This space creates more individual privacy for students, with a mix of classic cubicles, tables, glass walled rooms and benches. This space is also used for the aspect of our Blended learning approach which involves independent online learning.
This 6th grade space is designed for a language arts and social science combination, with a rolling garage door in the center designed to split the space into two separate spaces when needed.
This is one half of an 8th grade space with the garage door down. It is also a language arts and social science combination.
Here is a picture of the same space from the other side of the garage door.