Professional Documents
Culture Documents
11 interactivity
13 integration
15 inspiration
17 i3 learning environments
19 Different zones work together
21 Facilitator zone
27 Participant zone
45 Informal zone
53 i3 services
55 vision inspires
Lifelong
Learning
The world is changing. The exponential acceleration of
technology requires all new skill sets. Currently, the technology
gap is ever increasing, which means many students graduating
and starting their careers don’t have the necessary skills to be
proficient in business environments.
05
Today’s ‘lifelong’ learners face a very different world than all levels of the job market. In addition, the same studies
their parents did. They will live longer and have more indicate that most European workers see the gap between
freedom than ever to choose their experiences, social the expectations of and requirements for ICT skills of their
networks, and values. The rollercoaster of scientific and future employers and their own actual skills increase year
technological (sci-tech) change runs faster every year, by year. The gap between demand & supply for ICT literate
spinning us irreversibly toward a very extraordinary future. employees imposes costs on business in the form of lost
Our planet is wiring up into one vast, instantaneous, productivity, hiring and recruiting costs and limits on
transparent and increasingly intelligent global network, growth. This calls for a different approach than the actions
which creates amazing new opportunities for business and taken so far, such as changing the place of ICT education
society. in our curriculums, and boosting social inclusion through
Yet there are great challenges ahead as well. The world innovation and training.
is now so interconnected that big problems in any given Also, taking into account the abundant flow of new
place are becoming everyone’s problem. This constant information being generated every year (estimates claim
change will require today’s learners to change their future a contemporary citizen gets presented more facts and
faster, learn new technology and networking skills more figures in one week of information gathering than a citizen
frequently, and consider the environment they live in living in the 18th century would come across in a lifetime),
from an entirely different perspective. They will also be we should consider adapting our teaching methods to
challenged to keep learning every day and thus should this new reality. In the future, knowledge will not only be
experience these educational duties as a right to learn. about remembering facts, but about the skills to filter out
The Internet and technological growth have induced a relevant information from this information flow. In the
paradigm shift, changing the way business is conducted. 21st century, literacy will mean being able to adapt to ever
The specialized training and education requirements evolving technological means and use them to instantly
for current and future employees and the lack of access access the necessary and relevant information on a certain
to diverse employee pools contribute to the problems topic.
companies experience in employing a strong and diverse The question to be asked is whether the current traditional
employee base. According to recent studies, ICT skills teaching methods and environments are suited to the task
are becoming an increasingly important entry ticket to of teaching these skills.
Lifelong Learning 06
our
solution:
The VANERUM Group companies manufacture, import and/
or install products and solutions which help to create i3
environments. By i3 we mean products of interactivity,
integration and inspiration that are a result of the needs of
classroom and office furniture, interactive whiteboards and
other interactive solutions, projectors and displays, voting
and room control systems, digital signage software and static
signage solutions,… Among the outcomes are more efficient
meetings, stimulating learning environments for youth and
adults alike, remote interactive collaboration,…
07
Learning how to “see”
Design is a way of seeing things. How you think about a The content of this collection is offered to help others
subject depends, in part, on your culture, your experiences, “know how to see.” As you review the examples, it will
and your expectations --how you see things. When most of quickly become apparent that these learning spaces have
us think of a “learning space,” we think of a classroom with a positive impact on people. Words such as learning,
a professor at the front of the room and maybe blackboards, engagement, interaction, and excitement come to mind,
projectors, or interactive whiteboards. The presumption is but you will see patterns as well:
of information delivered in a lecture format.
What if you “saw” something different? What if you saw • Space shaped by learning rather than by instruction
learners rather than lecturers? What if you saw chatter • Socially active space
rather than silence and action rather than stillness? What if • A shift from classrooms to learning complexes
you saw learning as something social rather than something • Service philosophy
cerebral? What would be different? Expectations? Learning • Technology integration
spaces? Learning? In the collection that follows you will find • Experimentation and innovation
many examples of learning spaces that began with seeing • User involvement
things differently. The assumptions were different --there Diana G. Oblinger - EDUCAUSE “Learning PLaces” chapter 14 page 1
i3 learning 08
i 3
learning
inspiration
09
interactivity
INTERACTIVity =
Social dynamics and collaboration drive new ideas and help us
progress, decide and learn. By Interactivity we mean features
that stimulate information and the accessibility and exchange of
knowledge. Face to face or distant, live or virtual, synchronously
or asynchronously.
integration
INTEGRATION =
Properties that merge rooms, furniture, technology and
facilitators into a seamless environment that improves
information access and exchange, interactive collaboration and
technological education to provide 21st century learning skills.
INspiration =
Ergonomical, aesthetic and functional features that provoke a
sense of excitement and well being which breaks down barriers
standing in the way of an optimal gathering and exchange
of knowledge and information. Interactive and integrated
environments and tools, experienced trainers and the right
resources inspire learning and collaboration.
i3 learning 10
The most obvious interpretation of
1
interactivity: interactive whiteboards
and other technologically interactive
products enable fast and easy display
of varied multimedia contents that
appeal to all learning styles.
11
09
interactivity
In our vision, interactivity is important in different ways. Most
obvious are the interactive IT products in our product line: all products
allow interactivity in global, single user or small group collaboration
setups, both inside the working or learning environment and at
home.
Although we are fully convinced of the need for and the benefits of
these technologies, we believe that a number of classic, less dynamic
interactive means can support, or if cleverly used, even enhance
the effect of technological interactivity. Whiteboards, blackboards,
magnetic boards, flip charts and pin boards all provide instant
access, are approachable in different creative ways. Interactivity is
also the way in which environments enable us to communicate and
collaborate. Good furniture helps to improve communication and
collaboration: it is ergonomically correct, easy to move and group in
different setups, is flexible and/or modular, offers multiple seating
options, is ready for advanced IT and audiovisual integration,... One
can combine all these components at once, or integrate them step
by step (over time) in order to gradually shape the i3 environment
of their choice.
i3 learning 12
integration
The goal of integration should be to achieve the highest possible level
of synergy between the elements that constitute the environment.
Various functions such as ergonomics, communication,
collaboration, technology, mobility, storage,... integrate into well-
thought products, which integrate into the main i3 zones to form an
i3 environment.
13
1 A good example of the ultimate level of integration.
1
The computer screen, keyboard and mouse stow away
in the hydraulic lift, the CPU can be locked in the CPU
holder. The IT infrastructure is safely stored and out of
harm’s way, yet readily available when needed.
i3 learning 14
The learner’s sense of well being depends on numerous range of fresh and bright shell and frame colors. Combined
physical and psychological factors. Ergonomics, aesthetics, with its sensual shape, the total package is very pleasing
shape and color, feel, atmosphere,… all have their effect. to the eye and definitely at its place in a learning centered
The Uno-V chair is comfortable, allows dynamic seating environment.
by offering multiple seating options and is available in a
15
inspiration
Interactivity and integration are essential parts of i3 environments,
but are not sufficient. Inspiration is a prerequisite to reach advanced
outcomes. Climate, atmosphere, ergonomics, aesthetics, technology
and audiovisual interactive media each have their own effect on the
motivation and the sense of well being of participants and facilitators
alike. The right mix of these elements, combined with a skilled and
driven facilitator who is able to leverage the physical environment
through education, training and experience is the best recipe for
improving learners’ and workers’ achievements. This obviously
calls for a consistent strategy of professional development, content
creation and awareness building, in addition to the investments
in infrastructure and technology that are often already in place.
Finally, engaging and empowering learners is of utmost importance
if we want to inspire them. This means they must be allowed to
(inter)act inside the extended learning environment, have access
to all integrated means that compose it and be free to be inspired
anytime, anywhere.
i3 learning 16
Learning
environments
The cultural change required in thinking of space in a new way should not be underestimated.
We need to ask such basic questions as “Should rooms have a front and a back?”“Should faculty
offices be separate from classroom facilities?” “Should food and talking be allowed in the library?”As
Scott-Webber* pointed out, our sense of space is one of the most primal of human instincts.
Deeply engrained attitudes about space in colleges and universities mean it will take patience and
persistence to make changes, particularly more radical ones.
*Lennie Scott-Webber, In Sync: Environment Behavior Research and the Design of Learning Spaces
(Ann Arbor, Mich.: Society for College and University Planning, 2004)College and University Planning, 2004)
17
Creativity, attention and critical thinking
learning environments 18
Different zones
work together
Assuming a classic school building and a conventional The participant zone consisted of rows and columns of
approach to the learning space, each “classroom” can classic school furniture that was perfectly suited to the
be divided into different zones that all provide different rigid classical/frontal teaching style that aimed to transfer
functions. knowledge instead of helping learners discover. Social
interchange between peers was virtually excluded from
Historically speaking, a learning environment (which used lessons. The informal zone consisted of the study and the
to be synonymous with “classroom”) was composed of a students’ home.
(public) display zone, a teacher and participant zone and
one or more informal zones. The (public) display zone With the arrival of modern technologies and conceptions,
would contain the blackboard and maybe a number of the location and physical properties of these zones have
static learning objects such as maps, photos and figures, a become less predefined. The following pages will give
compass for board use etc. as well as some storage space. you a inexhaustible overview of possible contemporary
This (public) display zone was mostly used by the teacher applications.
and usually situated behind the facilitators zone, which in
reality made it the exclusive property of the teacher. The As society keeps progressing, these views will continuously
facilitators zone mainly contained the classic teacher’s need to be revaluated and if necessary adapted to the new
desk and a low chair which only allowed students at the social challenges and technical opportunities.
back of the class limited eye contact with the teacher.
19
i 3
environments
Facilitator
zone
+ Participant
zone
+ Shared (media)
zone
+ Informal
zone
i3 Products
Products
All zones in our i3 solution are composed of consciencously selected and if needed specially developed products
and components that optimize the functional value of each zone. The solutions are in line with the goals set for
the specific learning environment. Over the following pages, we will give you some examples of the possibilities in
our range of solutions.
learning environments 20
21
Facilitator
zone
After decades of being the center of attention and standing at the
front of the classroom, the 21st century teacher (in this situation
instructor, expert, coach, co-learner,... might be more suitable terms)
moves to the back, the center or the sides, wherever needed. The
contemporary facilitator zone is integrally embedded in every aspect
the learning environment, through physical or virtual integration,
into other zones.
learning environments 22
The Optimax design is based on three principles: dynamic participant on the same level as the facilitator, involves the
ergonomics and integration, equality and inspiration learner and has as a powerful inspiring effect. Its mobility
and flexibility and interactivity. Applied to the facilitator makes it exceptionally suitable for changing environments
zone, this means various seating and standing positions where classic teaching, individual and group work alternate
are possible, while it still remains easy to get in and out at a fast pace. The teacher’s working unit no longer has
of the chair and table. IT components and storage options to be at a fixed place in the room, bringing the facilitator
can easily be integrated. The feeling of equality resulting closer to the learners and stimulating interaction.
from the raised seating system that literally brings every
23
The lockable, moveable cupboard easily
connects to and disconnects from the
table and contains the CPU and/or teacher
specific documents or objects.
learning environments 24
The development of this teachers’ station was driven by the need for a mobile storage solution for facilitators.
The flexible layout of the desk and its articulated table top allow for flexible and instantaneous configuration options,
depending on the particular needs of the moment. The simple yet efficient technology integration completes the
package.
25
The cart allows for computer and technology wires to be
completely concealed. Plenty of wire management from
top to bottom!
The SMART Document Camera fits exceptionally well into the i3 teacher zone. It allows
the teacher to operate the camera from the interactive whiteboard through intelligent
integration with the whiteboarding software or from his desk, standing next to the
camera. This also enables learners to use the camera from the interactive whiteboard
while being supported by the teacher who can intervene on the camera itself.
learning environments 26
Participant
zone
According to the constructivist learning model, spaces independently (reading, writing, or accessing print or
should center on learning, not experts. Students not only electronic resources). Integration of moveable tables and
sit down and listen, but construct their own learning path chairs allows for quick reconfiguration to support different
in collaboration with their facilitators and peers. Within the kinds of activity. This furniture obviously still has to be
classroom, this means the room has no front or “privileged” ergonomically correct and adaptable to each individual.
space. Outside the classroom, it means providing ample Discomfort makes a compelling distraction to learning,
place for discussion and study. and students may drop classes because of uncomfortable
chairs in the classrooms.
The learning centered approach benefits from small group
work spaces, instant access to tutors and experts, table Studies show that the current generation of students
space for a variety of tools, integrated lab facilities and IT, expects seamless technology use. As technology changes,
facilities that are always accessible, shared screens and smaller devices will travel with users more and more.
availability of printing. Wireless environments, the capacity to network with other
devices and display vehicles, and access to power will be
It also introduces flexible furniture arrangements, expected. In other words: learning environments need to
decenters the room from teacher to student activity, have plug and play technology access..
and stresses collaboration. As an example, a group of
learners should be able to move from listening to one Finally, in evaluating a model learning space, students
speaker (traditional lecture or demonstration) to working noted the paint colors, carpeting, and lighting without
in groups (team or project-based activities) to working prompting as important factors that stimulate well-being.
27
learning environments 28
The unique rotating power entry
unit allows for hard wire connections
to the power source, without
permanently committing a table to
the start location.
This table is one of a kind. It allows you to quickly reconfigure faster than ever before. The unique rotating power entry
the space while maintaining the ability to distribute power unit allows for hard wire connections to the power source,
and data. The daisy-chainable 4 trac power system allows without permanently committing a table to the start
quick and easy connections from table to table. When location.
reconfiguring, simply disconnect, rearrange, and reconnect
29
Whether you choose one permanent PC at the back of the The large side openings make it easy to transfer power
room or look at furnishing an entire computer room, you from table to table.
should take into consideration our classic computer table. Mounted on the 5 star wheeled base, the active, passive
A table with a lot of leg room and that is easy to get in to and reverse seating options of the Solifiber shell gain even
and out of. Flip open the lid to reveal an ample cable guide more functionality and inspire by their total freedom of
with rubber passage that keeps the cables in optimal form. movement.
learning environments 30
Optimax offers optional simple but efficient technology integration.
Cables can be hidden in the frame and passed through the work
surface. The removable bookshelf option makes sitting at both
sides possible and provides ample space for books and technology
such as interactive reponse systems.
31
Optimax’s mobility makes it exceptionally
suitable for changing environments where
classic teaching, individual and group work
alternate at a fast pace. The teacher’s working
unit no longer has to be at a fixed place in the
room, bringing the facilitator closer to the
learners and stimulating interaction.
The Optimax design is based on three principles: dynamic storage options can easily be integrated, which arguably
ergonomics and integration, equality and inspiration and makes the Optimax the most versatile learning furniture in
flexibility and interactivity. Applied to the student zone, the world. The raised seating system literally brings every
this means learners can freely choose to sit or stand participant on the same level as the facilitator, involves the
without interrupting the lecture. Since getting in and out learner and has as a powerful inspiring effect.
of the chair and table is easy, learners can be actively
involved in the lesson. Network and power connections and
learning environments 32
Whether you are engaging in whole classroom teaching, for the teacher to intervene from even the back of the
small groups collaboration, or individual learning, the classroom. With the interactive reponse system, facilitators
interactive whiteboard will answer your needs. With its get instant feedback to on-the-fly or prepared questions,
easy to use interface, the integration of the award winning allowing them to measure the level of understanding of a
Notebook software platform and learner centered additional certain topic in formative and summative assessments.
software, this finger based interactive whiteboard solution VANERUM provides various options and services to help
allows more students to interact on the surface without you integrate the solution in your environment.
passing a pen, and various accessories make it possible
33
learning environments 34
As the world becomes ultramobile and even more connected, anytime anywhere
learning becomes a reality. The borders between classrooms and recreational
environments start to fade, requiring a new approach of the integral learning
environment. Our furniture fits this trend perfectly: connectivity and power supply,
private or shared display options, a modular system that makes it easy to realize
differently shaped work spaces are all integrated into one sleek package.
With the integrated articulated VESA screen mount, you can work in an
ergonomically correct way by connecting a small screen laptop to the
docking station. If needed, the mobility of the screen mount allows you
to simultaneously work on your laptop and share the content of your
screen with others.
35
Another possibility: all collaborators connect their laptops
to a power supply and VGA and network connection, and
are able to alternatively share the information on their
screen with the group, by displaying it on the shared public
display. When not in use, the docks neatly fold back into
the table surface, without compromising the stability of
the structure.
learning environments 36
37
shared (media)
zone
In our i3 philosophy, the (public) display zone is any “place” inside a
learning environment (which no longer necessarily corresponds to a
“classroom”) that enables static or interactive information sharing
between individuals, groups, or a mix. It should be accessible to not
only the teacher, facilitator, expert or coach, but to the learners as
well. Resulting from this functional difference and the technological
progress, the designated area for this zone is no longer the front of
the classroom.
learning environments 38
The rail system makes it
easy to move and replace
components, such as classic
flip charts or whiteboards.
If you are fed up with the plethora of audiovisual products will provide instant access to a range of modern means
needed to deliver engaging lessons, lectures or meetings, it of collaboration and communication, while taking a less
is certainly worth to consider moving to a more integrated, prominent position when the boards do not need to be the
computer based solution. Interactive whiteboards and focal point of the environment.
their accessories are a perfect example of a technology
that integrates DVD players and television sets, audio VANERUM’s media wall is a perfect example. The cabinet is
systems, overhead projectors, classic whiteboards and perfectly integrated into the room so that the visual aspect
flipcharts,… Yet as technology integration will only increase is as light as possible. It does not seem like a big cupboard
in the future, it is wise to also consider alternatives that takes up most space in the room. The folding doors permit
39
Smart and easy connection
options allow freedom of
movement while ensuring a
sleek, stable connection.
learning environments 40
The height adjustable magnetic white-
boards come in handy as a mobile static
display feature.
41
The mobile wallzone contains all necessary
connections for the PC, the integrated
projector and the whiteboard and ample
storage space for the CPU and/or shared
documents or objects.
learning environments 42
The SMART Board interactive
whiteboard is designed to
allow the use of dry erase
markers, just like a regular
enamel whiteboard. In this
particular setup, that means
three static whiteboard
displays are available at all
time.
For those who want to use video projections space, or in front of it if the interactive whiteboard is
and interactive whiteboards but still want not in use. Height adjustability means it is adaptable to
the extra space and functionality classic learners of various sizes and ages, while incorporating
whiteboards can provide, the patent board the use of multiple boards provides the ability to
is a perfect solution. The height adjustable, integrate multiple presentation and collaboration
sliding whiteboards can either be placed next styles into one lesson.
to the interactive whiteboard for additional
43
The whiteboards are height adjustable
and slide from left to right, which makes
them easily accessible to learners of all
heights and ages.
learning environments 44
Informal
zone
The distributed zone is used for lounging, relaxing, brainstorm
sessions, group work or personal tasks which require deep
concentration.
45
learning environments 46
The articulated seat support allows
for 270 degree movement. This not
only facilitates easy in and out,
but also 270 degree collaboration
with peers in front, behind and at
the sides.
47
The foot plank comes equipped with an integrated wheel
that makes Monomax easy to move by just tipping the table.
Monomax is ideal for group work and rapidly changing
configurations.
The innovative design of Monomax combines ease of use Model available with a foot plank that may be anchored
with ergonomic seating comfort. Since the Monomax seat to the floor. This is ideal for individual study areas, study
is attached to the base of the worksurface, it conserves rooms, and libraries. The version with foot plank also
floor space without sacrificing the size of the seat; the comes equipped with a wheel. Just tip the table and it‘s
user’s comfort is preserved. easy to move. This makes it ideal for group work and
rapidly changing configurations.
learning environments 48
As learning moves away from predefined locations and furniture line. Thanks to the modularity of these foam
systems, the adapted furniture evolves as well. The components, the possibilities are endless. The free form
depicted blocks started as an experiment and were very well factor and fun colors add an inspiring, comfortable touch
received. Meanwhile, other shapes, colors and functions to any environment.
have turned this experiment into a true -be it alternative-
49
Blocks can be stacked into virtually any setup,
the only established rule being gravity. The
components’ shapes allow them to be interlocked,
which makes stacking fun, challenging and safe -
like a giant 3D puzzle.
learning environments 50
Touch panels are an easy and efficient way to access and
change information and environmental parameters such
as temperature, light, AV sources etc. They can also be
used to reserve the tools and rooms one plans to use and
can serve to synchronize personal devices with the shared
agenda.
Information Support
As the learner gets more freedom to choose, the learning Although students have little fear of technology, they are
path becomes less defined in terms of time and place. not necessarily proficient with technology, information
There will, however be a need for face to face interaction, retrieval, or cognitive skills --what many call information
which requires peers to be present at the same place at fluency. It is not just technology or information resource
the same time. This information can either be sent to the assistance students need; sometimes that assistance
learner’s personal devices, displayed on the public displays involves writing, student services, and so on. Locating
at the information center and throughout the learning support desks and help systems where students are
environment, or both at the same time. encourages their use. Technical support staff can be
51
Totems offer the perfect mix between
mobility, static and dynamic signage.
Some information (eg directions)
seldom changes, while other, more
dynamic information attracts
attention. Mix and match to create
the ultimate information hub.
Admin PC
Administrator Group administration
(Super Monitor) Devices in the same group
(Super Reporter) repeat the same information and
share the same schedule
Projector
GROEP 1 Plasma
SMP
LCD
SMP TV walls
LED
LAN
WAN
Intranet
located in classroom buildings or one-stop centers, Large public displays are efficient means to display
incorporating services from the library, IT, and the writing dynamic eye-catching information. If managed through
center. Although they may look different or have a new a digital signage system, this information can be edited
name, information desks are likely here to stay. remotely and be instantly updated as new information
becomes available. Context sensitive input guarantees the
right information is displayed at the right time and place.
.
learning environments 52
Our
services
Planning
Our method is tried and true.Time and time again
we have collaborated with our clients to deliver
exactly what they wanted. With you as our guide,
we detect the unmet need, brainstorm various
concepts, create an innovative functional design,
and deliver. Period.
Financing
When you finance your i³ environment through
VANERUM Group, you benefit from the fact that we
are passionate about our job.
Decide on your dream integration and let us provide
flexible financing to help you realize it. We offer
options for loan customization, low competitive
rates, and no down payment in some cases.
53
Installation
Once you decide on which environment suits
your needs best and have the financial means to
implement it, our installation teams come into
play. They each have years of experience in their
own field, be it furniture, audiovisual integration,
programming of interactive devices , etc.
They ensure that by the time you walk in, you will
find a plug and play environment, all ready to go.
Training
In our way of conducting business, our job does not
end there, though.
Our experienced accredited trainers will provide you
with the necessary training and tips to make the
most of your investment. As new options become
available, you will always be able to rely on our
expertise.
Support
Last but not least, we like to touch base regularly
with our customers to ensure everything runs
smoothly. Should any problems occur, we are there
for you. From first line support to authorized repair
centers and in house manufacturing – the best
guarantees you can get.
Vision Inspires 54
Vision
Inspires
55
What if you “saw”
something different?
Vision Inspires 56
Classic classroom and school setup which provides
a certain amount of flexibility and is technologically
enhanced.
57
Vision Inspires 58
Moving away from traditional school environments.
The borders between classrooms fade, learning
activities flow more freely from one space to
another.
59
Vision Inspires 60
The school completely transforms into one vast
collaborative learning and meeting environment
with smaller traditional classroom spaces and a
more open atmosphere. Studying, learning and
collaborating takes place anytime, anywhere and
across subjects. This is the ultimate constructivist
approach.
61
Vision Inspires 62
www.vanerumgroup.com
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