Have you ever walked into a bar or restaurant looking for atmosphere and when its not there, walked out? Isn’t that just a little bit odd! – and yet we have probably all done it. This gives some indication as to how sensitive we are to the environment in which we live, work, and play. The way you pull of this insightful magic trick is by detecting nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expression, tone of voice etc, soaking up the lighting, colour, sound and temperature, whilst sensing the emotions in the room using your primeval antennae.

We also learn in an environment – which is why it’s important we are mindful of the spaces we choose for study. The term learning environment is broad, encompassing all aspects that surround you, including the physical setting and learning materials, psychological factors, such as motivation and emotions, as wells as cultural influences. These elements all play a crucial role in your ability to absorb, process, and retain information, directly impacting learning outcomes.

Impact on learning
There is considerable evidence to support the importance of a “good” learning environment.

One study by Barrett et al. (2015) found that the physical characteristics of a classroom (light, noise, temperature, air quality, and seating arrangements) explained 16% of the variation in pupils’ academic progress. Ambady and Rosenthal (1993) discovered that people could accurately gauge a teachers’ mood and effectiveness from just six seconds of silent video clips. And as we know attitudes and moods are contagious, contributing to the overall feeling of a classroom. As discussed in a previous blog, in 2006 Carol Dweck’s brought to us the importance of a growth mindset that showed that learners who “feel psychologically” supported and encouraged are more likely to embrace challenges and persist in learning.

My blog Reading underwater – Context dependant memory, concludes that where you learn has a bearing on what you are able to remember at a later date. And Top Gun: Maverick or a Study With Me Video? Identifies the interesting trend of students choosing to play a video of other students studying in the background to create the “right mood” to help them study.

Having an effective study environment can improve….

Motivation – Engagement – Social interaction – Emotional wellbeing – Levels of concentration – Retention.

Which is a very powerful list of learning ingredients.

The online learning environment
It’s essential to recognise the digital space as a learning environment and not merely a platform for content delivery. Whether through asynchronous (self-managed) or synchronous (real time streaming) methods, the design of online environments plays a crucial role in enhancing engagement, motivation, and knowledge retention.

To be effective the asynchronous environment must provide structured pathways, clear objectives, and opportunities for self-assessment. Incorporating interactive elements such as discussion boards, quizzes, and multimedia resources to promote active engagement. Whilst synchronous learning needs to develop a sense of community and provide immediate interaction. Designing sessions to encourage collaboration and participation is vital. Facilitators should use breakout rooms for small group discussions and incorporate polls or Q&A sessions to keep learners engaged and motivated.

Creating your own learning environment
But what does this all mean if you are studying on your own? Here is some guidance on creating your very own learning environment.

• Physical environment – Have your own learning space – Choose a well-lit, quiet area with a comfortable chair and desk. A dedicated workspace signals to your brain that it’s time to focus, which can improve concentration and productivity. Organise your materials – Keep books within reach to minimise distractions. Use visual aids – Incorporate posters or mind maps, but make sure the space is uncluttered.
• Maximising motivation – Set clear goals – Break study sessions into specific, achievable objectives. This provides direction and a sense of purpose, helping you maintain motivation throughout your studies. Self-assessment – Use quizzes and flashcards to evaluate your understanding. Celebrate small achievements – Keep a note of your progress and consider social media posts when achieving milestones.
• Psychological environment – Cultivate a positive mindset – Focus on progress and remind yourself of your goals. A positive mindset enhances resilience, making it easier to overcome challenges and stay committed to your learning journey. Manage distractions – Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique for focused study sessions.
• Emotional environment – Create an enjoyable atmosphere – Listen to background music (preferably instrumental) or find a calming spot. A pleasant environment can reduce stress and make learning more enjoyable, which can improve retention. Practice mindfulness – Use deep-breathing exercises to reduce anxiety and maintain focus.
• Social learning opportunities – Join online communities – Participate in forums or study groups for support and discussion. Engaging with others can provide motivation, diverse perspectives, and valuable insights into the material. Teach others – Explain concepts to a virtual peer or record yourself teaching. Teaching reinforces your understanding and helps clarify your own knowledge.

So, whether you step into a bar, restaurant, or classroom, remember that the right atmosphere can make all the difference. Just as a great venue enhances your night out, a well-designed learning environment can be the key to unlocking your best study experience.