The Architecture of Creative Learning Environments

Abstract

Learning environments are highly influential on creative processes, and many educational psychologists have suggested that environments have the power to make or break the creative potential of students. A learning environment designed to support creativity offers opportunities for divergent thinking and innovative solutions, with an overall atmosphere that fosters communication, collaboration, and risk-taking. The SCALE (Support for Creativity in a Learning Environment) is an evaluation instrument designed to evaluate the creative potential of learning environments. SCALE was created based on an extensive literature review, classroom observations, and administrator/educator/researcher collaborative design and consists of 14 items in three categories that were identified as foundational to supporting student creativity: Learner Engagement, Physical Environment, and Learning Climate. We hope that SCALE and other such instruments can allow for the identification and development of environments more suited for creativity.