Today’s students intermix low- and high-tech info-mediums whether working with other students or their teachers. Low-tech mediums include paper-based reading and writing, brainstorming and class discussions. High-tech mediums use laptops and digital displays. Flexible design is crucial. It allows students and teachers to move fluidly between interpersonal, analog and digital modes of communication whether working alone, in groups or as a class. Plan for sight lines, space division, light levels, storage adjacencies, visual displays, and power/data access to optimize info-medium dynamics.
Observation
Videos broadcast to an entire class usually induce daydreaming or sleep – especially with the lights out, while electronic displays in small group settings stimulate interaction.
Solution
Keep the lights on. Integrate technology tools like large monitors into individual and small-group environments to maximize digital learning effectiveness.
