What is the educational ecosystem? It is a new conception of the school environment.

It embraces the possibility that public school might fully commit to delivering rich, varied, and engaging learning experiences. It suggests that the $65B or so that the United States spends annually on public school construction and renovation might be more fully dedicated to supporting teachers and nurturing student engagement.

It releases teachers from their classrooms, and in so doing, releases all of us from the paradigm of repetitive classrooms.

It considers how architecture shapes experience through affordances, avoidances, arrangements and ambiance, and recognizes that students and teachers want and need more than what too many of our schools offer them now. It recognizes that Architecture can make educational experiences more powerful.

Instead of a withering environment of repetitive classrooms, science labs and a media center, it proposes an ecosystem rich in educational environments and experiences.

I’m not suggesting we spend more on America’s public schools.

I’m suggesting we spend the money we already allocate differently, in service to more powerful teaching and learning. I’m suggesting we can build more effective schools.

Your thoughts on this journal post are highly valued, as I continue to build and refine my perspective on schools and the school environment. Please share your own experiences and perceptions of the school environment below!