Hampton University Classroom Modernization: Redefining the College Experience for Collaboration, Engagement, and Comfort
- April 4, 2024
- Sean Downey
Hampton University Classroom Modernization: Redefining the College Experience for Collaboration, Engagement, and Comfort
With roots that reach deeply into U.S. history and the African American experience, Hampton University in Virginia has its sights set squarely on the horizons of the global community of the 21st century. Along with being one of the top historically-Black universities in the world, Hampton University is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators, representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations.
Hampton University’s student body has expanded over the last two years and some of the school’s traditional classroom space was dated and in need of an overhaul. Instructors like DeShea Simon, Ph.D., assistant professor, information systems, wanted to be able to provide more collaborative space for students to work in, but their existing furniture was holding them back.
“You could tell our furniture was dated because the desks were set up to have computer towers put down into the desk itself,” said Simon. “Students were bringing more of their own technology to class, which really wasn’t set up in a very ‘user friendly’ manner.”
When a student suggested that his father might be able to lend a hand with Simon’s classroom modernization goals, she decided to show him the space and ask for suggestions. “He understood my vision and asked me to make a list of everything I needed,” said Simon.
“Over the summer we looked at different vendors, furniture and pieces of equipment,” she added. “I was impressed with MiEN because their pieces were so clean, modern, and adjustable. Their flexible offerings really lent itself to a mobile space.”
What’s on the Wish List?
Simon’s wish list included desks that could be moved around the room easily and either used individually or for group work. She wanted a color palette that would stand the test of time plus a lectern, cabinet, computer shelf and a charging station for laptops.
New flooring wasn’t on the original list, but the school’s donor included that in the classroom modernization project as well. That enabled the placement of receptacles that made it easy for everyone to keep their devices and computers charged.
Now, when students come to class, they can sit at collaborative desks, work in groups or work individually—it’s their choice. Knowing that today’s workforce relies on teamwork, Simon can help her students better prepare for post-graduation success.
“I’m an active teacher, and I often shift the focus of class time from passive listening to active participation. Students are on the computer, engaging in assignments, collaborating with team members, and connecting with relevant resources,” said Simon. “All of that is very important to me because I know that when students go out into industry, these are the types of things my students will be doing.”
Laying Out the Goals Early
MiEN was very accommodating and stayed in close contact with Simon throughout the entire classroom modernization upgrade process. She especially liked being able to select the colors and materials for the new chairs, which meant fewer “surprises” when it came time to install that furniture. She also appreciated how MiEN’s installers handled the complete installation process.
After a busy summer spent selecting furniture and fixtures and then having everything delivered and installed, Simon’s new classroom was ready to use last semester. To teachers or universities that share her goals for creating a more collaborative classroom, Simon said the best first step is to lay out your goals for the space early in the process.
“I knew immediately that I wanted a mobile, collaborative space. Those were the two most important things to me,” said Simon. “I wanted students to be able to move around the room, and then come together and work when needed. I’d say if you have a good understanding of what you’re going to be doing in the room, everything else will come together nicely.”
This is Your Room
Simon’s students love their new learning space and have faith in her ability to create a 21st century learning environment for them. She is quick to remind them this is their room—not hers—and that they should immediately feel welcomed and comfortable upon entering it. She’s also grateful to the donor who made it happen, and the student who took the initiative to tell his father about the need.
“This experience has humbled and inspired me. For my student and his family to do this for us has really meant the world to me,” said Simon, who enjoys giving her students a modernized, engaging learning space to work in. “As educational facilitators, we really have to move away from using spaces where students just ‘sit and learn’ and over to more interactive, collaborative classrooms.”
