Intermediate learning space redesign
The 'South Wellington Intermediate School' classroom redesign project initially involved gathering and getting to know the students whilst we ideated with them. This allowed a moment for their creativity to flow and us to understand what they would like to see within a complete redesign. Many of the students displayed an interest in more comfortable segregated spaces, and a more hands on and engaging environment that utilises new technologies.
During the research stage learnt about how natural environments encourage peace and serenity within individuals, meaning that from the get go I utilised a relatively neutral colour scheme. Following this, I studied common symbols and designs within the subjects that the students would learn about within their curriculum. Symbols such as the 'helix' and the 'space shuttle' served as direct inspiration for the design of my lighting fixtures. The hexagonal lab station allowed for multiple students to be working together closely when conducting science experiments, whilst having immediate access to equipment on the shelving.
The students requested an overhaul of the technology they had access to, so I developed a dedicated dark-room for equipment such as virtual reality, light-boxes, and projectors where students could touch on most aspects of the curriculum. The original structure doesn't make use of the available rooftop space and nature-based science experiments are frequently completed within the classroom, so I grasped the opportunity in creating an outdoor learning space with several shallow planters, desks, and a rainwater tank for plant-based experiments.
The 'South Wellington Intermediate School' classroom redesign project presented the opportunity for us to engage with the students in the redesign of their learning environment. Alongside the core redesign, I developed two augmented reality applications to accompany their updated classroom environment. The first application displays aspects of the redesigned interior in a three-dimensional format, for example, the tiered hexagonal design of the lab desks. This aims to help teachers and students learn more about their updated learning space.
The second application is a learning tool for the students. The 'Planet Quiz' possesses a series of questions about our solar system on small poster prints. That student then presents there answer and then checks it with the application. This application will display not only the answer in text but a detailed three-dimensional model of the planet which the student can study further.
