IN-PERSON: Learning. Life. Work

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic instigated a significant transformation in work environments, propelling the necessity of accommodating diverse learning styles within the office. While the concept of tailoring environments to individual learning preferences has found its footing in educational settings, its application in the corporate workplace remains largely uncharted territory. Employees are often pushed back into the traditional confines of the conventional office, stifling creativity and productivity. We are exploring the pressing demand to bridge the gap between the rich tapestry of learning styles and the holistic design of interior office spaces, recognizing the multifaceted dimensions of employee diversity. The post-COVID era is a unique opportunity to reshape work environments for the better with an emphasis on work-life balance, environmental behaviors, and the overall quality of experience for employees and stakeholders alike. The VARK model, conceived by Neil Fleming in 1992, provides a framework for our understanding of the diversity of employee focus in the workplace. This model classifies learning preferences into four categories: visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic. These categories form the basis of our research, guiding our investigation into how interior architecture and design can facilitate changes that resonate with diverse thought processes and working methodologies. This research emphasizes the transformative potential of interior spaces in boosting employee happiness, retention, and productivity – moving beyond mere recognition of learning styles but instead translating them into actionable design strategies which create more productive, engaging, and diverse office environments. This reshapes the nature of work itself, leading to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and increased productivity – ultimately benefiting both the workforce and the bottom line.