The rapid advance of technology, together with demographic changes in Colombia, the residual effects of the pandemic and new pedagogies, generate important challenges for the education sector.. This has led to a greater demand for the development of socio-emotional and technological skills that forces institutions to review whether their training spaces are prepared to meet the demands of the 21st century.
According to Kassani, the furniture solutions company, studies show that The infrastructure of educational centers is a factor that determines the well-being of students, their academic performance and educational experience. Recently, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) revealed that around 77 percent of the country’s schools have infrastructure problems, a fact that demonstrates the need to modernize educational spaces, but also the urgency of understanding that Without this component one cannot think of academic success.
“A planned and well-designed learning environment promotes interaction and active learning, as well as the development of soft skills such as assertive communication and emotional intelligence, factors that together favor the permanence and retention of students,” stated Kassani. According to the company, modern and functional spaces promote personal and academic development, improving the academic process by up to 16 percent.
For this reason, furniture has become a key element to create dynamic, flexible and inclusive learning environments, in contexts where active methodologies, such as the flipped classroom and technology-mediated teaching, become more relevant.
Ergonomics and well-being
Ergonomics is an essential factor when learning. For example, tables and chairs designed for support and comfort allow students to concentrate longer without sacrificing their physical well-being. Likewise, flexible environments that incorporate collaborative work areas, rest areas and spaces for individual reflection, help create a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.
Institutions that invest in modern and flexible furniture project an innovative and visually attractive environment, aspects that become differentiating elements that influence the enrollment decision. Furthermore, by offering a welcoming and functional environment, institutions are more competitive and reinforce the sense of well-being and belonging.
“In our 40 years of experience we have learned that educational transformation begins with the planning of physical spaces. We believe that these should reflect current pedagogical methodologies. For this reason, at Kassani we design solutions that take into account the realities of students, creating learning environments that encourage growth,” they concluded.