Pedagogy and Space: Design Inspirations for Early Childhood Classrooms

Linda M. Zane: Linda M. Zane, EdD, is associate professor of early childhood education at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Prior to this position, she was assistant professor at Slippery Rock University and adjunct professor of early childhood education at Duquesne University. Dr. Zane was the director of an accredited early childhood program for ten years before venturing into the world of higher education. She holds an EdD in instructional leadership from Duquesne University.

The intersection of architecture and education is a new and burgeoning area of interest. This book blends architectural design information with theory-based content explaining the foundations of early childhood environments. Colourful photographs of intentionally designed spaces will inspire you as you dream, plan, build, and revamp settings.

Working TOCChapter 1: IntroductionDoes Classroom Design Matter?The Pedagogy of SpaceChapter 2: What Does the Research Say?The Importance of Childhood Environments: Theory Into PracticeTheory of ConstructivismReggio Emilia Educational ApproachWaldorf Educational ApproachMontessori Educational ApproachThe Importance of School EnvironmentsA Systemic View of the EnvironmentThe Classroom Environment and AchievementBarriers to ChangeConsiderations for ChangeChapter 3: Design Patterns for Early Childhood ClassroomsInspiration Behind Design Patterns for Early Childhood ClassroomsGuidelines for Reading Design Patterns for Early Childhood ClassroomsCategory 1: Making Connections (General Schemes of Connection)Mosaic of CulturesIntimacy GradientCommunal EatingClassroom WorkshopThings from your LifeConnection to the EarthCategory 2: Coming and Going (Entrance/Exit)Building EdgeEntrance TransitionWelcoming Reception Entrance RoomCategory 3: On the Move! (Circulation)Flow through RoomsShort PassagesCategory 4: Let the Sunshine In! (Lighting and Color)Indoor SunlightPools of LightTapestry of Light and DarkWarm ColorsCategory 5: A Place of My Own (Room Structure)Common Areas at the HeartA Space of One's OwnFlexible Classroom SpaceWindow PlaceChild CavesBulk StorageCategory 6: Be Comfortable (Seating)Sequence of Sitting SpacesDifferent ChairsStair SeatsCategory 7: Take It Outside! (Outdoor Spaces)Adventure PlaygroundHalf-Hidden GardenOutdoor ClassroomOpening to the StreetChapter 4: Design Patterns Toolkits: Applying What You've LearnedDesign Patterns ToolkitsReady, Set, Go!Ready: Reframe, Recruit, RecordSet: Story, Spark, SegmentGo!: Go What, Go How, Go When, Go AgainAppendix A: Design Patterns for Early Childhood Classrooms Worksheet