The student commons can be personalized by featuring group color codes or school colors, displaying student artwork, and providing colorful wall decorations or thematic bulletin boards. Architectural motifs, such as skylights, raised ceilings, or distinctive patterns, also enhance student ownership. Resolving these tensions is key to designing a functional and inviting student commons. For an instructional space, lighting, acoustics, and technology should support individual, small group and large group work. For a social center, the space should suggest a comfortable, inviting atmosphere and provide areas for intimate and informal discussion.
Student commons can function both as formal and informal learning environments.
They provide a space for instruction and individual work and serve as places for intimate and social gatherings. Far from inefficient, student commons are central to clustered classroom designs. Providing a relaxed space that supports instruction is a prominent way to facilitate learning and enhance students' appreciation of their physical environment. American School Board Journal. Pathfinder Elementary School.