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TOPIC 6 QUALITY PHYSICAL LAYOUT 
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6.7 INTERIOR: WALLS, WINDOWS, DOORS AND LIGHTING
The quality of the environment must include the interior aspects of the building. There are certain aspects of a quality learning environment to be considered when setting up a place for young children to learn, namely the interior design in general, and the walls, doors, windows and lighting in particular.
(a) Interior Design
This is where designers can be creative with the use of colours. Bright colours always spark enthusiasm for learning. Colours have a positive effect on young learners as they create a carefree and homely atmosphere. The texture of designs for the walls, flooring tiles and the feeling of wood can stimulate the childrenÊs sense of touch and sight. Different patterns can also add a variety to a room or learning centre.
(b) Walls
The wall of the classrooms or other learning space must be heavy duty but allow for easy cleaning. It should be made of hard wood or heavy duty fabrics or bricks. It must also be strong enough for teachers to hang materials. It terms of design, the walls in schools can be straight, curved or unbroken. Drawing murals or permanent graphics are not necessary as it gives a sense of clutter to the learning area.
(c) Doors
According to the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities (n.d.), all exiting doors should lock and a process should be implemented requiring all visitors to report to the office or electronic doors should be installed and controlled from the office, except when a staff member is on hand to greet parents and children. All entrance and exit doors should be secured to prevent children from leaving the building and unauthorised individuals from entering the premises. It is important to ensure that all doors allow for emergency exits. Another important aspect is that all exiting doors should have a push-open lever rather than pull-open lever or doorknobs.
(d) Windows
Ponessa (2004) noted that windows are important not just to allow air into the classrooms but also to create an ambience that is conducive for learning. The choice of windows should be those that are easy for cleaning or vacuumed treatment. For example, teachers can choose between blinds or shades. Curtains should not be used in classrooms due to serious health
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