A Case Study: Natural Outcomes of Creating Classroom Space

Having empty floor space in a classroom contributes to student achievement, but how open space influences teaching and learning is not as well understood. In this case study researchers coached two teachers in a ru ral elementary school regarding the reduction of material and furniture, and using storage and classroom organization to support the taught curriculum. The researchers observed the classrooms multiple times to uncover teacher and st udent behaviors that emerge when a classroom is planned around space. Increasing the amount of empty floor space had a positive influence on affective behavio r, organization and opportunities for student learning.