Learning doesn’t happen in a vacuum, it’s shaped by the spaces around us. A crowded hallway can spark collaboration. A quiet garden can trigger reflection. A flexible studio can become a playground for ideas. Yet we rarely pause to ask: Is this space helping us learn, or holding us back?

To support this kind of reflection, we created the Learning Space Self-Assessment Tool, a practical way to evaluate how well a space supports inclusive, sustainable, and creative education.

The tool is presented as a circular radar chart, divided into five axes. Each axis represents a dimension that matters for creative, inclusive, and sustainable learning. Users are invited to score their space from 1 (very poor) to 5 (excellent) in each dimension.

Once all five areas are scored, the resulting shape gives a quick overview of the space’s strengths and areas for improvement. It can be used by individuals, teams, or across institutions.

The Five Dimensions

1. Physical Environment

Does the space feel safe, open, and adaptable? Is it accessible to people with diverse needs?

• Score 1–2: Cluttered, poorly maintained, hard to access, or uninspiring
• Score 3: Functional but not adaptable; some limitations in layout or comfort
• Score 4–5: Welcoming, flexible, well-lit, inclusive in design and accessibility

2. Educational Resources

Does the space provide appropriate materials and tools for its learning goals?

• Score 1–2: Lacks essential tools; outdated or minimal resources
• Score 3: Basic supplies available, but not tailored to creative learning
• Score 4–5: Well-equipped with current, diverse, and flexible learning materials

3. Environmental Sustainability

How does the space reflect care for the planet?

• Score 1–2: No visible efforts; high energy waste; disposable materials
• Score 3: Some recycling or sustainable practices, but inconsistently applied
• Score 4–5: Designed or adapted with sustainability in mind, natural light, reused materials, low-energy use

4. Pedagogical Support

Can the space support diverse learning activities and methods?

• Score 1–2: Rigid layout, fixed furniture, little room for group work or creativity
• Score 3: Some flexibility, but not fully adaptable to different styles
• Score 4–5: Movable elements, zones for collaboration and reflection, tech that enhances learning, not distracts

5. Community Engagement

Is the space shared, accessible, and connected to the local community?

• Score 1–2: Closed-off, exclusive, or disconnected from outside use
• Score 3: Occasional public use or visibility
• Score 4–5: Open for workshops, exhibitions, and interaction with local residents or organisations

✧ How to Use It

1. Print the radar chart or project it digitally.
2. Read the guiding questions for each dimension.
3. Score your space from 1 to 5 along each axis.
4. Connect the dots, what does the shape tell you?

The tool isn’t designed to judge, it’s meant to spark reflection, dialogue, and improvement. It can be used when designing a new space, evaluating an existing one, or co-assessing with learners and partners.

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As education expands beyond classrooms, we need ways to measure what truly matters. This tool offers a quick, thoughtful way to visualise a space’s readiness, not just for learning, but for the kind of learning the future demands.