Much has been written about the use of moveable/operable walls and other products, technologies, and features in educational facilities of all types with an emphasis on classrooms. Space division, as provided by operable/moveable wall systems, allows for varied teaching methods. In addition, aesthetics contribute to a better learning environment and acoustic control provides an improved learning experience. All are valid reasons for the use of moveable/operable walls and other “flexible capable” products. When all these operable wall features are examined, the conclusion is always the same; The importance of adaptable and flexible space in education is significant and important and that the incorporation of flexibility in the design concept will dramatically contribute to a more successful and satisfying learning environment.
With the advancement in technologies as well as varied teaching methods, the traditional concept of a rigid classroom is obsolete. Teaching/learning spaces must be designed to accommodate an ever-changing variety of learning styles, methods, activities that are revolutionizing the way students learn, and teachers instruct.
Why do adaptable spaces matter?
- Enhanced Student Engagement: Flexible space encourages active, collaboration and creativity. Students can move around, choose within limitations their learning environment, and engage with other students on a one-to-one basis.
- Variable Learning Styles: Flexible spaces cater to different learning styles. Being able to relocate ensures that the student can best find their optimal learning environment.
- Collaborative Learning: Flexible space facilitates collaboration amongst students allowing them to work together on projects, brainstorm and share knowledge.
- Technology Integration: Today’s education methods rely heavily on technology. Flexible space allows the seamless integration of technology into the learning process.
- Future-Proofing Education: Education needs constantly evolving. By using movable wall systems to create different and alternate spaces the school can quickly adapt to changing curriculum.
Creating Adaptable/Flexible Space. Points to Consider:
- Consultation: Consult with an established and experienced movable wall supplier to discuss your desires and vision for the future. The correct moveable wall designs and configurations, including storage areas will be determined.
- Technology Integration: Determine what features you want incorporated in the teaching areas including the moveable wall systems. Whiteboards, marker boards, projection screens, wireless connectivity etc. are all features that are available.
- Acoustics: Determine the acceptable noise levels in each learning area. Select the proper sound control qualities to be incorporated in the movable wall design. Verify with recent independent laboratory STC sound tests.
- Natural Light: Consider, when possible, the use of glass movable wall systems or demountable glass wall systems. Natural light, visibility and openness is beneficial to the learning process and student alertness in addition to being healthy.
- Multi-Purpose Spaces: Design the movable wall system such that spaces can be divided into areas that can be used for various activities such as lectures, group work, individual study, presentations, meetings etc.
- Aesthetics: Consider the role of the movable wall system in creating an engaging visually appealing space. A place where people want to be.
- Ease of movement and mechanisms: Compare the advantages and limitations of the distinct types of movable wall systems: manual, electric, automatic, semi-automatic, vertical lift. Make easy, safe, reliable operation priorities as often the relocation of movable wall systems is time sensitive.
- Maintenance and Durability: The need for limited maintenance, long-lasting systems that on site and local personnel can address is necessary.
- Warranties and Guarantees: Seek long-term guarantees including material and labor with minimal exceptions for cost-effectiveness and reliability.
What are the priorities of the various “Stakeholders” in the selection of a movable wall system?
- Teachers: Ease of use, sound control, flexibility to suit their needs, surfaces that support their needs.
- Students: Comfort. Noise control. Collaborative as well as restricted areas. Visually appealing.
- School Boards: Cost- effectiveness. Durability. Safety. Long term guarantees.
- Architects/Design Team: Aesthetics. Acoustics. Ease of installation. Proven history of success. Reliability. How the movable walls fit into the overall design of the facility. Cost. Compliance with building codes.
- Maintenance Staff: Ease of cleaning. Overall simplicity of maintaining the system. Cost of repair. Reducing downtime. Inventory of parts that may fail or be damaged. Guarantees. Who to call for assistance?
Various Types of Movable Wall Systems to Consider:
- Manually operated: Manual panels that are physically put into place. Require physical effort. Most common, dependable, and cost effective. Best for needs that are constantly changing.
- Electrically Operated: Panels put in place electrically. Effortless operation. Typically used for large gymnasium dividers. No flexibility in terms of location: “back and forth” only. Cannot move if power fails or problems occur with drive mechanisms.
- Automatic: Push a button and individual panels automatically go to their pre-determined locations. Hands free operation. It can be integrated with building automation systems. Extremely expensive to purchase and maintain. Require specialists. Will not operate if electricity goes out.
- Semi-Automatic: Like automatic except panels are manually put into place with acoustic seals automatically activated. Expensive requiring specialists to maintain.
- Vertical Lift: Extremely expensive. Store in ceiling rather than at end of wall runs. Specialists to maintain. Just “up and down.”
In conclusion, movable wall systems are an ever-evolving product that is changing and adapting to the needs of modern education. As technology advances, more sophisticated and innovative movable wall systems offering greater flexibility, improved acoustics and enhanced aesthetics will become available.
