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5 Room Attributes That Support Learning

Content

The physical space you choose for a training session can make or break participant engagement.

The physical space you choose for a training session can make or break participant engagement.

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Tue Jul 01 2025

A wall leading into a warm, comfortable meeting or learning space with wooden-paneled walls, a long white table, bright lights, and rolling chairs.
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Content

The physical space you choose for a training session can make or break participant engagement. The right environment boosts focus, comfort, and collaboration, while the wrong space drains energy and limits impact.

The physical space you choose for a training session can make or break participant engagement. The right environment boosts focus, comfort, and collaboration, while the wrong space drains energy and limits impact.

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1. Good lighting.

1. Good lighting.

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Use natural light to promote alertness and improve mood. If windows aren't available, choose a space with bright, adjustable lighting.

Use natural light to promote alertness and improve mood. If windows aren't available, choose a space with bright, adjustable lighting.

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2. Flexible seating.

2. Flexible seating.

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Look for rooms with movable chairs and tables to support small-group discussions, breakout activities, and varied facilitation styles.

Look for rooms with movable chairs and tables to support small-group discussions, breakout activities, and varied facilitation styles.

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3. Clear sightlines.

3. Clear sightlines.

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Avoid obstructed views of speakers, slides, or materials. Set up the room so every participant can see and be seen.

Avoid obstructed views of speakers, slides, or materials. Set up the room so every participant can see and be seen.

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4. Quality sound.

4. Quality sound.

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Test acoustics before the session begins. If necessary, use a microphone so learners can hear clearly, especially in large or echo-prone rooms.

Test acoustics before the session begins. If necessary, use a microphone so learners can hear clearly, especially in large or echo-prone rooms.

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5. Minimal distractions.

5. Minimal distractions.

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Choose a room away from noisy hallways, kitchens, or construction. A quiet, focused atmosphere encourages deeper learning.

Choose a room away from noisy hallways, kitchens, or construction. A quiet, focused atmosphere encourages deeper learning.

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July 2025 - TD Magazine

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