The Importance of Design in Instructional Learning

In the GHELI Learning Studio, there is a supporting actor often goes unnoticed when viewing or taking part in the Incubator’s instructional learning experience. “As designers and educational facilitators, we often focus so much on the content of what we are trying to teach that we take for granted the way that the aesthetics of our surroundings and space impacts the learner’s experience,” says Courtney Blum, Senior Project Manager at the Incubator.  At GHELI, the studio team recently carried out a series of experiments employing different “sets” and background environments. The team plans to create a series of designs dependent upon what is being filmed, the subject matter, and who is the primary actor and audience.

Camilla Finlay, GHELI’s Multimedia Administrative Coordinator, emphasizes the integral role of the studio set in shaping educational products from behind the camera. “Studio sets are critical in creating intimacy between the educator and the audience.” What we see and experience in an educational environment, regardless of whether the learner is in the physical space or viewing online, sets the tone for how well we understand and absorb information. From color palette strategies to how busy the space is, these aesthetic factors have significant implications for whether the viewer is more inclined to be distracted, tuned in, intimidated, or comfortable in their learning experience. 

Courtney continues, “The challenge with complex educational topics like global health is to maintain an aesthetic that is both optimistic and engaging, without being contradictorily bright and distracting.” The same principles for what is successful in a real-world, physical learning environment can also apply to digital learning spaces, an effort that the Incubator plans to continue their work on in coming projects.

Explore pilots and prototypes from GHELI’s Learning Studio.