Page 181 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 05 11/20/02 12:13 PM Page 170
170 The Creative Training Idea Book
Windows and Doors
As you will read later, the amount and type of light provided in a learning environment
can greatly impact learning. For that reason, look for facilities that have an ample
number of windows or other light sources. If you have windows, make sure that there
are coverings to control the amount of light, glare, and distractions that they cause. Also,
consider whether you will open the windows (if possible) to have good exchange of air
that can stimulate learners. There is a disadvantage in having windows because you lose
valuable wall space for displaying items and training aids. You also have a potential
distraction if learners can look out of the windows to the surrounding area.
If at all possible, position the front of your room opposite doors. This prevents
learners from being distracted as someone enters or leaves the room. It also prevents
distractions as people walk by the door when the door has windows or is left open. You
may want to close any doors to reduce outside distractions.

Illumination (Lighting)
The significance of lighting cannot be overlooked when considering your learning
environment. Physiologically, the retina of the human eye accounts for 40 percent of all
nerve fibers connected to the brain, which may account for the high number of visual
learners in any group. This fact points to the need to do whatever possible to stimulate
those nerves effectively. By providing natural or effective artificial lighting along with
other visual stimuli, you can help improve the chance that learners will be more alert
and take in more information.
Light affects the level of alertness a person has by limiting the amount of melatonin
produced by the body. This natural substance causes drowsiness. Researchers have found
that sunlight, and to some extent certain forms of artificial light, also impact respon-
siveness and mood, help cure rickets, reduce infections and colds, and can generally lead
to better health. Studies on the impact of light in a variety of settings have resulted in
some important discoveries related to human performance and physical and mental
conditions in humans. Such research has also caused many school systems and organ-
izations to rethink and retool the lighting in classrooms and work areas. For example,
one study by a Vermont psychiatrist 15 on the impact of lighting in three elementary
schools found that lighting impacted absenteeism. In the experiment, London changed
the light bulbs in a number of classrooms from standard to full-spectrum (Vitalite) to
better simulate sunlight. According to London, when comparing absentee rates before
and after the switch it was noted that absenteeism decreased by 65 percent following
the change. Reportedly, fluorescent lighting raises the level of a hormone called cortisol
in the blood. This substance suppresses the immune system and impacts stress, and in-
creased levels can potentially adversely impact learning.
Even with all the research indicating the importance of light, many organizations
have not gotten the word. For example, many conference facilities and training rooms
often have lighting that is aesthetically attractive (e.g., chandeliers, recessed lighting, or