Effects of Classroom Design on the Memory of University Students: From a Gender Perspective

Abstract

Classroom design has important effects on the cognitive functions of students. However, this relationship has rarely been analysed in terms of gender. The aim of the present study, therefore, is to analyse the influence of different design variables (classroom geometry, wall colour, and artificial lighting) on university students’ memories from a gender perspective. To do so, 100 university students performed a memory task while visualising different design configurations using a virtual reality setup. Key results show that certain parameters, such as 5.23 m classroom width, 10,500 Kelvin lighting colour temperature, or the blue hue on the walls influence men and women in a similar way, while a purple hue or walls with low colour saturation can generate significantly different behaviour, especially in cognitive processes such as short-term memory. In this study, the use of virtual reality proved to be a useful tool to explore the design effects of virtual learning environments, increasingly present due to training trends and catalysed by the 2020 pandemic. This is a turning point and an international novelty as it will enable the design of classrooms (both physical and virtual) that maximise the cognitive functions of learners, regardless of gender.

Color education: A study on methods of influence on memory

“…The methods of intensification of color-based teaching are being actively developed in contemporary pedagogy ( Zavaruieva et al., 2022 ; Nolé et al., 2021 ). The classification of emotions based on the criteria of their intensity and corresponding colors was made according to the results of several studies ( Jackson et al., 2009 ).…”

“…This conclusion relied on the studies of the processes of cognition and attention and pointed out a better perception of colored presentations. Nolé et al. (2021) explored the positive impact of the color of classrooms (real and virtual) on the quality of learning and the perception of students.…”

Subjective Assessment of Light Environment Quality based on Human-centric Lighting

“…A good light environment has a positive relationship with human performance [1][2][3][4][5], human well-being [6][7][8][9][10] and human behavior [11]. Various positive effects of the light environment on space can be achieved by creating a good quality light environment.…”

The Role of Environmental and Geographical Factors in the Education Process

“…Having natural daylight in the classrooms is vital for students' learning processes. Natural light and windows on both sides of the classroom provide the opportunity to see outside the classroom walls and give the eyes a chance to rest (Nolé et al, 2021). However, it is necessary to be careful that the light should not be dazzling, and the reflection of the light should not bother the users' eyes.…”