Nowadays, modular classrooms are a staple for schools and universities throughout the UK. The student population is growing as more and more young people continue learning up to the age of 18 and beyond. With limited space on this small island of ours, schools have had to become flexible and work out the best way of using their space effectively. Modular construction is an option many are turning to as a quicker and more cost-effective way to use the space afforded to them.
I mean, why wouldn’t you? These modular classrooms can be manufactured quickly, relocated easily or even expanded to meet changing requirements. The benefits are becoming more and more obvious to those in the educational industry but there is still one burning question: Do they actually help children learn? After all, that’s what school is all about. To answer that question, we have to understand what modular classrooms are, how they differ from traditional builds and whether any of their design features lend themselves to an effective learning environment.
What is a Modular Classroom?
Modular classrooms are prefabricated structures which can easily provide additional teaching space to an existing school building. They are constructed off-site in sections, known as modules. These are then transported to the site and assembled quickly with minimal disruption to a school day. While these buildings were initially seen as temporary solutions, they are now becoming more long-term facilities for schools.
A traditional build would see builders on site for a long-period of time, while the modular approach has proved a far more flexible and faster solution. The structures can be added and removed or altered based on the current requirements of a bespoke design or project. They also include everything you would wish to have from a traditional classroom such as proper ventilation, insulation, lighting, and connectivity. This ensures there is a comfortable environment for pupils, a key aspect in the learning process.
Months of planning, building and site management for a traditional construction are replaced by building in a controlled environment off-site which is not subject to weather delays, or any issues specific to the site.
Key Elements of Modular Classroom Design
Now we know what they are, it’s important to look at the design features of a typical modular classroom:
- Natural Light: Modular classrooms quite often have large windows which maximise the light entering the room. Studies have shown that this is an important ingredient in education
- Soundproofing: External sound is a concern for every classroom and modular classrooms can be a distance away from main school buildings leaving them open to the external environment. But high-quality soundproofing materials are used which almost fully eradicate external noise leaving a quiet learning environment.
- Flexibility: Movable walls make an easily configurable space which can accommodate differently-sized classes or activities.
Collaboration and engagement among students is at the forefront of educational and modular classrooms that lend themselves brilliantly to a dynamic learning experience. They’re practical, modern and eco-friendly making them a great choice for any educational establishment.
Impact of Modular Classrooms on the Learning Process
Having said all this, it’s tremendously important that these buildings do have a positive impact on the learning experience. Research has indicated that the usual design features of a modular classroom do ensure they are extremely effective learning environments for pupils.
They are equipped with proper lights, ventilation and temperature control creating a comfortable environment which is essential for learning. Natural light and good air quality directly impact concentration and overall well being.
The flexibility of these rooms mean they can be used as large open spaces, collaborative areas or even smaller breakout rooms which cater to different teaching styles and learning preferences.
The Benefits of Modular Classrooms
Sustainability is a key benefit of modular classrooms with fewer raw materials, commonly used in traditional builds, which produce significantly more waste. These eco-friendly materials are also built off-site minising the disruption.
This means the construction process is much quicker so if a school has a significant overcrowding problem, a temporary facility can be quickly erected and be in use in no time at all.
Modular Classrooms also provide financial benefits. With shorter construction times, lower costs are generated. More resources can then be used on educational tools and staff which are important areas of operation.
Integrating Modular Classrooms into Existing School Buildings
Modular classrooms can be whatever you want them to be really. You might want them to be stand alone facilities where you’re looking to start up quickly. Or if you’re wanting to expand an educational establishment, they can be incorporated amongst traditional buildings. They can even be connected by corridors and walkways allowing for easy student access.
When speed is of the essence, modular buildings are always going to be preferable. They can be completed over a weekend or through the school holidays creating only a small amount of disruption.
Conclusion
Modular classrooms could be a valuable part of any school. The flexibility of the buildings means they can adapt to any scenario and provide it with a modern, flexible and cost effective solution. They can be built on a tight timescale and then be relocated if needs be.
This all sounds great but if they weren’t conducive to a good learning environment, then they wouldn’t be of much use. But with natural light, air quality and soundproofing all key features of modular classrooms. Kids will find the perfect learning environment in a modular classroom to thrive.
