Model of 21st century physical learning environment (MoPLE21)

Abstract

The physical learning environment is often considered to be a secondary element of education. Therefore, this study examined the following research questions: What role does the physical learning environment play in the educational process? How can we adapt the physical learning environment to 21 st century education? The present study analyzed behavioral models and reviewed 21 st century educational frameworks. Based on the findings, an ideal school environment model, called the MoPLE21, is presented and can be viewed online as an appendix of this paper at https://mople21.org. Our results show that the physical environment is an important and often underestimated factor in education, and an appropriately designed school environment can play a significant role in the 21 st century teaching and learning process. Finally, the MoPLE21 is discussed as an interdisciplinary tool for educational theorists and professionals for design, assessment, and everyday use in learning environments.