The Impact and Importance of Classroom Decor

By Tenzin Tenkyong

In classrooms across the world, the importance of keeping students engaged has become a more prevalent topic than ever. While most faculty may approach the problem of student engagement through classroom curriculum, emotional support systems, or teaching methods, the physical layout of the classroom is often overlooked. Recent observations of Lab School show how thoughtful room and hallway decor can impact a students engagement due to different psychological factors.

A student's learning environment can greatly influence their emotional state. For example, a cluttered classroom can create a sense of unease and can distract the student from their work, which in turn has a negative effect on their coursework. This is displayed in rooms with mismatched colors, random posters, and unorganized bins which create a chaotic mood. In contrast to this, a well organized room with bright colors and cohesive decor can create a sense of motivation and can spark focus and creativity. 

Colors have a major impact on the psychology of students and people in general. Studies show that cooler tones can create calmness and relaxation while brighter colors promote energy and liveliness. Teachers can choose which route to go based on what is best for the students in that specific class, which shows that color is a great way to create more vibrancy and emotional impact in the classroom. 

School decor can even go deeper than surface level factors such as design and color, but can also include representation. Cultural representation is a big factor, especially in America where segregation still prevails and in schools where bullying occurs.  A celebration of your culture in a classroom can feel special. Students of color can also feel a stronger sense of belonging and pride in their community. For example, a mural in the school's hallways by The Hispanic Latin Club depicts hands joined together, and a tree which depicts the students' journeys ahead catches the attention of people in the hallways, and honors the contributions of not only Hispanic students, but the student body as a whole. 

2024-2025 Edition 1