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The Influence of Spatial Layout on Learning Outcomes, Safety, and Productivity in Educational and Work Environments: A Systematic Literature Review
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: Architecture
Abstract
This study presents a systematic literature review examining how spatial layout influences learning outcomes, safety, and productivity within educational and workplace environments. Recognizing space as an active determinant of human performance, this review synthesizes findings from fifteen peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2024. Using the PRISMA framework, the research identifies spatial features (such as flexibility, environmental quality, circulation, and ergonomic design) that significantly impact user outcomes. In educational settings, adaptable layouts, daylight access, and acoustic balance were found to enhance student engagement, collaboration, and academic achievement. In workplace contexts, spatial factors like ventilation, lighting, and seating configuration were linked to improved employee satisfaction, cognitive performance, and overall productivity. Although safety is often treated implicitly, evidence suggests it is embedded in broader spatial factors such as visibility, mobility, and environmental control. The study further reveals strong convergence in spatial strategies across contexts, yet notable divergences in priority, measurement, and application. Gaps include the limited exploration of safety as a discrete outcome, insufficient longitudinal data, and a lack of studies from developing contexts. The review concludes by recommending holistic, user-centered spatial designs that integrate flexibility, safety, and productivity considerations to support optimal human performance in institutional environments.
Keywords
Design Strategy, Educational Spaces, Human Performance, Spatial Layout, Workplace Environment
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1709545,
author = {Abdul-Muhis O. OGUNBIYI, Christian T. ODEFADEHAN, Sogo A. OYESODE},
title = {The Influence of Spatial Layout on Learning Outcomes, Safety, and Productivity in Educational and Work Environments: A Systematic Literature Review},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {205-214},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1709545.pdf},
abstract = {This study presents a systematic literature review examining how spatial layout influences learning outcomes, safety, and productivity within educational and workplace environments. Recognizing space as an active determinant of human performance, this review synthesizes findings from fifteen peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2024. Using the PRISMA framework, the research identifies spatial features (such as flexibility, environmental quality, circulation, and ergonomic design) that significantly impact user outcomes. In educational settings, adaptable layouts, daylight access, and acoustic balance were found to enhance student engagement, collaboration, and academic achievement. In workplace contexts, spatial factors like ventilation, lighting, and seating configuration were linked to improved employee satisfaction, cognitive performance, and overall productivity. Although safety is often treated implicitly, evidence suggests it is embedded in broader spatial factors such as visibility, mobility, and environmental control. The study further reveals strong convergence in spatial strategies across contexts, yet notable divergences in priority, measurement, and application. Gaps include the limited exploration of safety as a discrete outcome, insufficient longitudinal data, and a lack of studies from developing contexts. The review concludes by recommending holistic, user-centered spatial designs that integrate flexibility, safety, and productivity considerations to support optimal human performance in institutional environments.},
keywords = {Design Strategy, Educational Spaces, Human Performance, Spatial Layout, Workplace Environment},
month = {July},
}