Transformation is inevitable, transgression happens by choice
In March 2020, the world experienced significant disruption, leading to a state of stagnation. Established systems and structures came to a halt, rendering much of what humanity had created thus far seemingly irrelevant. However, amidst this upheaval, the internet emerged as a notable exception, retaining its relevance. As the pandemic escalated, human beings adapted to a new norm of remote connectivity, transforming offices, workspaces, and classrooms into virtual environments. This transition marked a powerful yet uncertain era in human history.
Research
The first step in creating this manifesto was to understand the true impact of the pandemic on the archaic system of physical classes. Being disconnected from the physical spaces, I decided to initiate the data collection process with the use of social media and in-depth interviews.
Before the pandemic, students followed a tight schedule, consuming around 15 hours of their day. Activities like commuting and meal preparation took up a significant amount of time—however, in the post-pandemic era, restricted movement and changed habits led to notable time-saving.
Pros and Cons of Remote Classrooms
After exploring multiple directions, 3 questions remained unanswered to me.
1. What is the definition of the classroom Of Tomorrow?
2. What factors will be influential In choosing the classroom of tomorrow?
3. Can the Digital & Physical Spaces ever merge?
Don Norman's Emotional Response & its Adaptation
Gaining a profound insight into how users initially respond to a system proved to be a revelation for me. Don Norman's Emotional Response framework, which encompasses the Visceral, Behavioral, and Reflective connections triad, played a pivotal role in comprehending user reactions.
This understanding of emotional response laid the groundwork for addressing the three fundamental questions that had surfaced earlier.
As of July 2020, 74.9% of the surveyed students and teachers still struggled to adapt to digital classrooms & continue their educational practice.
The Manifesto
Tool for classrooms
An interactive website was further developed for students and teachers alike to understand in-depth the action-oriented approach suggested by the manifesto.
The primary objective of the project was to offer a fresh outlook on the classrooms of the future. Each facet of the manifesto introduced a distinct path that classrooms could potentially embrace for their advancement. Upon meticulous scrutiny, every aspect of the manifesto continues to hold relevance, with its prospective applications readily discernible in the current post-pandemic era.
Special thanks to Marc Panero & José Manuel Pérez Paadin.
To learn more about this project, get in touch