ISSN: 2945-4190
World Journal on Education and Humanities Research
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International
Vol. 3, Issue 4, pp. 27-37
Received, July 2023; Revised August 2023;
Accepted September 2023
Article
Enhancing Student Learning Through Classroom Design:
Exploring the Influence of Environment on Academic
Performance
Melanie A. Cutillas*
Daryl G. Lagumbay
Vaneza M. Ancajas
Anabel O. Besinga
Baby Apple A. Alo
Evelyn D. Ibale
Remcil Neri
Corresponding Author: melaniecutillas@gmail.com
Abstract: The study explores the influence of classroom design on
Grade 8 students' academic performance in English. The sample
consisted of teachers and students, with teachers predominantly aged
between 20-29 and holding some units in their Master's degree, and all
students being from Grade 8. Aspects such as Health and Well-being,
Natural Lighting and Acoustic, Technology Integration, and
Engagement and Motivation were evaluated to determine the status of
classroom design, receiving 'Strongly Satisfactory' ratings on average.
Despite students demonstrating 'Outstanding' and 'Very Satisfactory'
academic performance, the correlation analysis indicated an
insignificant relationship between classroom design and academic
performance, suggesting other factors at play. Key issues highlighted
for future improvement in classroom design include 'Inadequate
Space', 'Insufficient Technology Integration', and 'Lack of Flexibility'.
This study underscores the importance of well-designed learning
spaces in promoting an effective learning environment, even as it
indicates the need for further exploration of the dynamics between
physical environment and academic performance.
Keywords: Classroom design, environment, students, academic performance
Introduction
Copyright: © 2023 by the authors. Classroom design refers to the intentional arrangement of
Submitted for possible open access
publication under the terms and conditions physical elements within a learning space to support teaching and
of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY)
license(https://creativecommons.org/licens learning activities. It encompasses various aspects such as the layout of
es/by/4.0/).
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
furniture, lighting, acoustics, color schemes, temperature, and the
presence of educational resources (Peng et al., 2022). Importance of
classroom design in education Classroom design plays a crucial role in
education as it has the potential to significantly impact students'
learning experiences (Alam, 2022). An effective classroom design can
create a positive and conducive learning environment that fosters
engagement, collaboration, and active participation (Ferrer et al., 2020).
It can enhance students' motivation, attention, and overall well-being,
leading to improved academic outcomes. Therefore, understanding the
importance of classroom design is essential for creating optimal
learning environments (Shoshani, 2021).
Classroom design directly affects their engagement and
interaction with the learning environment. A well-designed classroom
can promote a sense of ownership and belongingness, making students
feel comfortable and supported in their learning journey (Cooper & Fry,
2020). It can stimulate their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking
skills, encouraging active exploration and knowledge acquisition. By
considering students' needs and preferences in the design process,
educators can create an inclusive and student-centered environment
that promotes effective learning (Qureshi et al., 2021). Classroom
design has a significant impact on students' academic performance. A
well-designed classroom can facilitate effective teaching practices,
enabling teachers to implement diverse instructional strategies and
accommodate different learning styles. It can optimize the use of
technology and resources, creating a technologically rich learning
environment. Furthermore, factors like lighting, temperature, and
acoustics can influence students' concentration, comfort, and overall
well-being, which in turn affect their ability to focus and succeed
academically. Therefore, a thoughtfully designed classroom can
contribute to improved academic achievement among students (Lu et
al., 2021).
Understanding the importance of classroom design is
particularly relevant in the Philippine context, where education plays a
vital role in national development. With a large and diverse student
population, creating inclusive and effective learning environments
becomes crucial (Fuente, 2021). Additionally, considering the resource
constraints faced by many schools in the country, optimizing classroom
design becomes even more essential (Sanger, 2020). Exploring the
influence of classroom design on academic achievement, this study
aims to provide insights and recommendations that can benefit
Philippine educators and policymakers in enhancing the quality of
education.
Despite the acknowledged significance of classroom design,
there is still a need for further research in this area. Existing studies
have mainly focused on specific elements of classroom design, such as
seating arrangements or technology integration, while a
comprehensive understanding of the holistic impact of classroom
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
design on student learning is lacking. Additionally, limited research
has been conducted specifically in the Philippine context, which
necessitates an exploration of the unique challenges and opportunities
faced by Philippine classrooms. This study aims to bridge these
research gaps and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
To explore the influence of environment on academic
achievement, this study will adopt a mixed-methods approach.
Quantitative data will be collected through surveys and academic
performance records to measure the relationship between classroom
design and academic achievement. Qualitative data, such as
observations and interviews, will provide deeper insights into students'
perceptions and experiences in different classroom environments. The
research findings will offer practical recommendations for educators,
school administrators, and policymakers to optimize classroom design
and promote student learning and academic achievement.
Methodology
To address the research questions and achieve the objectives of
assessing the classroom design in relation to students' academic
performance, a quantitative methods research approach will be
employed. This approach provides data collection and analysis
methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research
topic. In particular, the present conditions of the respondents as regards
to the implementation of classroom design will be described and
analyzed through data gathered using the research instrument.
Classroom design on the other on the other hand will be adopted from
the study of Barrett et al. (2013), Fisher et al. (2013) and Furniture, S., &
Ergonomics, C. (2010).
Results and Discussion
Table 1. Health and Wellbeing
Students Teachers
Indicators Mean VD Mean VD
The classroom design promotes a sense of calm 4.27 SS 4.23 SS
and relaxation in learning English.
The classroom design supports good air quality 4.17 SS 4.14 S
and ventilation in learning English.
The classroom design maintains comfortable 4.25 SS 4.11 S
temperatures in learning English.
The classroom design incorporates elements that 4.27 SS 4.23 SS
positively impact my well-being in learning
English.
The classroom design contributes to a healthy 4.17 S 4.24 SS
and positive learning environment in learning
English.
Grand Mean 4.23 SS 4.19 S
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
The table presents the ratings given by both students and teachers on
various indicators related to health and well-being in the classroom
design for learning English. The indicators include promoting a sense
of calm and relaxation, supporting good air quality and ventilation,
maintaining comfortable temperatures, incorporating elements that
positively impact well-being, and contributing to a healthy and positive
learning environment. Overall, both students and teachers expressed
high levels of satisfaction with the classroom design in terms of health
and well-being. The mean ratings for all indicators were above 4.0,
indicating that the classroom design is perceived positively by both
groups. The grand mean for students was 4.23, indicating a strong level
of satisfaction, while the grand mean for teachers was slightly lower at
4.19, indicating a slightly lower satisfaction level. The implications of
these findings suggest that the current classroom design successfully
promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, supports good air quality and
ventilation, maintains comfortable temperatures, and incorporates
elements that positively impact the well-being of both students and
teachers in the context of learning English. These findings highlight the
importance of considering health and well-being factors when
designing classrooms for language learning. A well-designed
classroom that prioritizes the physical and emotional well-being of
students and teachers can contribute to a positive and engaging
learning environment. Creating a sense of calm, ensuring good air
quality and temperature control, and incorporating elements that
positively impact well-being, students and teachers are more likely to
feel comfortable, motivated, and engaged in the process of learning
English. This, in turn, can potentially lead to improved academic
performance and overall satisfaction with the learning experience.
Table 2. Natural Lighting and Acoustic
Students Teachers
Indicators Mean VD Mean VD
The classroom design utilizes natural lighting 4.31 S 4.26 SS
effectively in learning.
The classroom design creates a well-lit and 4.33 S 4.31 SS
bright learning environment in learning
English.
The classroom design minimizes glare and 4.29 SS 4.23 SS
eye strain in learning English.
The classroom design manages noise levels to 4.25 S 4.13 S
reduce distractions in learning English.
The classroom design provides a comfortable 4.19 S 4.21 SS
acoustic environment for learning in learning
English.
Grand Mean 4.27 SS 4.23 SS
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
The table presents the ratings given by both students and teachers on
indicators related to natural lighting and acoustics in the classroom
design for learning English. The indicators include the effective
utilization of natural lighting, creating a well-lit and bright
environment, minimizing glare and eye strain, managing noise levels,
and providing a comfortable acoustic environment. The findings reveal
that both students and teachers expressed high levels of satisfaction
with the classroom design in terms of natural lighting and acoustics.
The mean ratings for all indicators were above 4.0, indicating positive
perceptions from both groups. The grand mean for students was 4.27,
indicating a strong level of satisfaction, while the grand mean for
teachers was slightly lower at 4.23, indicating a slightly lower
satisfaction level. These findings imply that the current classroom
design effectively utilizes natural lighting to create a well-lit and bright
learning environment. Additionally, the classroom design is perceived
to manage noise levels, minimizing distractions and creating a
comfortable acoustic environment for learning. The implications of
these findings suggest that the incorporation of natural lighting and
appropriate acoustic considerations in the classroom design positively
impacts the learning experience. Adequate natural lighting can
improve mood, focus, and overall well-being, while proper acoustic
conditions reduce distractions and enhance communication between
teachers and students. These factors contribute to a conducive learning
environment and can potentially improve student engagement,
concentration, and learning outcomes in the context of learning
English. Considering the importance of natural lighting and acoustics
in the classroom design can lead to more effective language instruction
and a better overall learning experience.
Table 3. Technology Integration
Students Teachers
Indicators Mean VD Mean VD
The classroom design provides easy access to 4.31 SS 4.18 S
technology tools and resources in learning
English.
The classroom design facilitates seamless 4.27 SS 4.17 S
integration of technology into lessons in
learning English.
The classroom design enhances my learning 4.26 SS 4.12 S
experience through technology in learning
English.
The classroom design supports interactive 4.23 SS 4.09 SS
and engaging use of technology in learning
English.
The classroom design encourages me to 4.40 SS 4.09 S
explore and utilize digital resources in
learning English.
Grand Mean 4.30 SS 4.13 S
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
The table presents the ratings given by both students and
teachers on indicators related to technology integration in the
classroom design for learning English. The indicators include easy
access to technology tools and resources, seamless integration of
technology into lessons, enhancement of the learning experience
through technology, support for interactive and engaging use of
technology, and encouragement to explore and utilize digital resources.
The findings indicate that both students and teachers have a high level
of satisfaction with the classroom design in terms of technology
integration. The mean ratings for all indicators were above 4.0,
indicating positive perceptions from both groups. The grand mean for
students was 4.30, indicating a strong level of satisfaction, while the
grand mean for teachers was slightly lower at 4.13, indicating a slightly
lower satisfaction level. These findings imply that the current
classroom design provides easy access to technology tools and
resources, facilitating their integration into English language lessons.
The design is perceived to enhance the learning experience by
leveraging technology, support interactive and engaging use of
technology, and encourage students to explore and utilize digital
resources. The implications of these findings highlight the importance
of effective technology integration in the classroom design for learning
English. Furthermore, encouraging students to explore and utilize
digital resources expands their access to information, promotes self-
directed learning, and prepares them for the digital age. Considering
technology integration in the classroom design, educators can leverage
the potential of technology to enhance language instruction and
support students' language acquisition and development. Providing
easy access to technology, incorporating it seamlessly into lessons, and
creating an environment that encourages exploration and utilization of
digital resources can lead to more interactive, engaging, and
personalized learning experiences.
Table 4. Engagement and Motivation
Students Teachers
Indicators
Mean VD Mean VD
The classroom design stimulates my interest in 4.37 SS 4.32 SS
learning in learning English subject.
The classroom design makes me excited to 4.35 SS 4.26 SS
come to class in learning English subject.
The classroom design encourages me to 4.27 SS 4.28 SS
actively participate in class activities in
learning English subject.
The classroom design helps me stay focused 4.29 SS 4.26 SS
during lessons in learning English subject.
The classroom design enhances my overall 4.25 SS 4.29 SS
motivation to learn in learning English subject.
Grand Mean 4.31 SS 4.28 SS
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
The table presents the ratings given by both students and
teachers on indicators related to engagement and motivation in the
classroom design for learning the English subject. The findings indicate
that both students and teachers have a high level of satisfaction with
the classroom design in terms of engagement and motivation. The
mean ratings for all indicators were above 4.0, indicating positive
perceptions from both groups. The grand mean for students was 4.31,
indicating a strong level of satisfaction, while the grand mean for
teachers was slightly higher at 4.28, indicating a slightly higher
satisfaction level. These findings imply that the current classroom
design effectively stimulates students' interest in learning, generates
excitement to attend class, encourages active participation, promotes
focus during lessons, and enhances overall motivation to learn English.
The design creates an environment that fosters student engagement,
involvement, and a positive attitude towards the learning process. The
implications of these findings highlight the crucial role of classroom
design in fostering student engagement and motivation in learning the
English subject. By designing a classroom that stimulates interest,
generates excitement, and encourages active participation, teachers can
create a positive and conducive learning environment. When students
are engaged and motivated, they are more likely to be attentive,
participate actively, and develop a deeper understanding of the
language. This can lead to improved language acquisition, retention,
and overall academic performance. Creating a classroom design that
enhances focus during lessons further supports students' learning
experience. When distractions are minimized and the learning
environment is optimized for concentration, students can better absorb
information, comprehend language concepts, and retain knowledge.
Additionally, the positive overall motivation to learn English, fostered
by the classroom design, can contribute to students' long-term
language learning goals and their willingness to invest effort and time
in improving their language skills. In conclusion, a well-designed
classroom that promotes engagement and motivation in learning
English is essential for fostering a positive and effective language
learning environment. By considering the indicators of engagement
and motivation, educators can design classrooms that stimulate
interest, generate excitement, encourage active participation, promote
focus, and enhance overall motivation, leading to improved language
learning outcomes and student satisfaction
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study reveals that while classroom design is
rated strongly satisfactory by both teachers and Grade 8 students in
regards to learning English, its correlation with students' academic
performance remains insignificant. The teachers, predominantly
younger females with substantial teaching experience and advanced
Cutillas Et al. (2023). Enhancing student learning through classroom design:
exploring the influence of environment on academic performance. Copyright
(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
ISSN: 2945-4190
education, perceive the classroom environment positively, especially in
terms of engagement and motivation. Students echo these sentiments
and have also demonstrated impressive academic performance in
various competencies. However, there are still crucial concerns to
address, with 'Inadequate Space', 'Insufficient Technology Integration',
and 'Lack of Flexibility' topping the list. These areas present
opportunities for continued improvement to further enhance the
learning environment. The role of classroom design in the educational
process remains crucial, but the full potential of its impact on academic
performance is yet to be unlocked. Continued exploration in this field
can provide valuable insights to optimize the interplay between
physical learning environments and educational outcomes.
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(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
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(c) 2023. Author (s). This is an open term of Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY). www.wjehr.com
