Designing an Effective Study Space
Reflecting on how much has changed since then; I started to go through what still applies to today’s students, in terms of helping them to maximize their productivity through organization. With the technology that kids now have access to for school and the ability for them to be able to study anywhere, I am often asked if it is still important to have a designated study space for your student. I would say resoundingly YES!
Not only can a designated space can be a great way to create order and discipline, it can help mentally prepare the student to get essential work done. Having a quiet orderly space can help many students more effectively study, as they can be more focused, with fewer interruptions during their study time. The use of a timer in their study space, can help students as well if they become easily sidetracked during studying.
I recommend a two pronged approach: First set up the designated study space for the student in their room. It can be a traditional desk with chair, a papasan chair with a table and bookcase sitting next to it, or a wall mounted organizing system. Setting up an organized study space will mean that you have a designated home for school and study related items.
Examples of what you need a designated space for : School books, binders, tablet/PC, chargers, everyday school supplies, extra school supplies, reference paperwork, keepsake paperwork – I define this as past school projects that the student is proud of and would like to hold on to for either posterity, or to use as examples of their accomplishments for job interviews.
You also want to set up a system for processing incoming paperwork; this can be as simple as having wall slots for: Action items, to file, and to read items. Also, pay close attention to lighting, making sure that the light is appealing to the eye of the student and that there is adequate task lighting available when switching between reading books and electronic devices.
Make Sure The Space Works For The Student
Whichever system you selected it needs to be able to contain the essentials for the student. Creating a place for these items will enable the student to find them when needed.
I recently had one college student who was struggling with being organized tell me, “I have a desk in my room, but I don’t use it to study. I end up studying in the common areas on campus and my desk ends up being a catch all.” She did not have a clearly designated function for the storage within the desk, or the top of the desk for that matter, so clutter ensued.
Once you have completed the room, set up the mobile study space – essentially the backpack, with everything that the student needs to be able to study virtually anywhere. To save time and frustration, duplicate the essential items.
For example, if the student’s PC is the primary item they need to study, make sure you have a charging cord for the backpack and one that is hooked up permanently on their desk charging station. The fewer items that have to move around from place to place the more efficient the student will be because they will not lose time looking for those items.
Make The Study Space Project Fun
Most importantly – HAVE FUN! Setting up you student for success should be fun and remember, you can always tweak your set up as you see what works best for your student.
