S6 E32: Why Research Into Learning Spaces Matters

January 4, 2023

Why does research into learning spaces matter? And how do you conduct it?

Overview:

Murray Hudson and former teacher Bhavini Pandya will take you through one of the most important new research studies into the relationship between pedagogy and space. They will reveal how a detailed three-year study that was put into place in a working school, with unique access to the pupil’s test scores. The results show that optimizing the learning environment leads to better educational outcomes. QED.

Murray Hudson is the co-author of Planning Learning Spaces; A practical guide for architects, designers and school leaders. The book demonstrates cutting-edge approaches to educational space design, from primary to college studies, and explains how these spaces support education and enhance learning experiences. Murray is also Managing Director of Gratnells Ltd, the leading manufacturer of school storage and space optimization. Murray travels extensively, visiting schools across the world to better understand how to create the optimal learning environment. Murray has worked in the education industry for more than twenty years and is a member EdMarket USA Equipment Manufacturers Council. He lives in Cambridge, UK and can be spotted on his bike at weekends.

Bhavini Pandya is a former primary school teacher and leads the Planning Learning Spaces in Practice team. The team works directly with schools across the world to demonstrate how the practices outlined in the book can improve learning environments and shape the minds of our future generation. Bhavini was key in running the Cambridge research project in the school where she used to work. To the children at Trumpington Park Primary School she is still ‘Miss Pandya.’

Meet Our Guest:

Website Links:
Murray Hudson:
gratnells.com
LinkedIn

Bhavini Pandya:
gratnells.com
LinkedIn

The Host:

The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels – Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Hosted by Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve.com & author of Creating Better Learning Environments.

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Website – https://www.kay-twelve.local/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/
Podcast – https://www.kay-twelve.local/podcast

If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please connect with Kevin Stoller.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve
kay-twelve.com
LinkedIn
Twitter

Better Learning Podcast
betterlearningpodcast.com

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
a4le.org
LinkedIn
twitter

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Are you rethinking what learning environments can be? We are always looking for thoughtful school leaders, designers, and educators to join the Better Learning Podcast and share real stories from the field.

As a guest, you will take part in meaningful conversations about student centered design, planning, and collaboration and how these ideas show up in real schools. We explore what is working, what is evolving, and what educators can do today to create learning spaces that truly support students and teachers.

If you are passionate about improving learning environments and have insights, experiences, or lessons to share, we would love to have you on the podcast.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast explores the ideas, strategies, and stories shaping today’s learning environments. Host Kevin Stoller sits down with school leaders, designers, and educators to uncover how thoughtful design, planning, and collaboration can transform schools into spaces that truly put students first.

Through in-depth conversations, the podcast highlights how Radically Student Centered™ approaches can make a tangible difference in schools, inspiring educators, administrators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of learning.