Start Small, Learn Big
Updating classrooms or building new facilities in K–12 schools is a massive commitment. One smart way to de-risk that investment? Pilot learning environments before diving into full-scale renovations. Pilots are small-scale test spaces where students and teachers “live in” the new design for a period of time. Think of it as a “try before you buy” strategy—only you’re testing flexible seating, innovative classroom layouts, and integrated technology to see what truly enhances learning.
The Value of a Pilot
Pilots are more than just a trial run; they are a data-driven experiment. Schools can observe how new classroom setups impact student engagement, collaboration, and learning outcomes. For example, does flexible seating encourage more group work? Are students more focused when they have the freedom to move and choose their workspace? Pilots make these insights tangible, providing real-world data that informs smarter design decisions.
A pilot space also offers a low-risk way to test new technologies and teaching methods. Interactive displays, writable walls, and reconfigurable furniture can be introduced on a small scale to measure their impact before rolling them out district-wide. If something doesn’t work, it’s far easier (and cheaper) to pivot when only one classroom is involved.
Building Confidence Across Your School Community
Change can be tough—especially in schools. Pilots make it easier by engaging teachers, students, and administrators in the design process. When teachers can experiment with new layouts and tech, they often become champions for change, sharing their successes and feedback with colleagues. Students get hands-on experience in reimagined spaces, leading to deeper learning and stronger connections to their environment. This real-world testing grounds ideas, and proves what works before any large financial commitment is made.
Moreover, pilots help schools align their design choices with educational goals. By piloting a STEM lab or a collaborative learning hub, schools can see firsthand how space, pedagogy, and technology intersect to support modern learning methods.
Why Steelcase’s Pilot Program is Different
Not all pilot programs are created equal. Steelcase’s Pilot Program stands out as the only one designed to truly measure impact through data-driven insights. Unlike typical pilots, Steelcase goes beyond just testing new furniture and layouts. Their program:
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Administers pre-surveys to gather baseline data from students and instructors before using the pilot space.
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Conducts post-surveys after a set period (typically 6 weeks) to collect data on the impact of the pilot space.
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Analyzes the data to assess improvements in student engagement, teaching effectiveness, and overall satisfaction.
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Compiles the survey results to evaluate the success of the pilot space.
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Prepares a comprehensive report detailing the findings, outcomes, and lessons learned.
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Shares the report with all stakeholders and uses the insights to inform future projects.
Steelcase’s approach uniquely aligns pilot projects with broader educational objectives and institutional goals, focusing on key areas like student engagement, critical thinking, teaching effectiveness, collaborative learning, and a sense of belonging.
Let’s Explore the Possibilities
At Franklin, we believe that successful learning spaces start with the right insights. Our Education Team partners with schools to design and implement pilot spaces that are driven by data, focused on student outcomes, and aligned with your school’s vision. Whether you’re considering a flexible classroom, STEM lab, or media center, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to explore how a pilot space could transform learning in your school? Connect with our Education Team to learn more about Steelcase’s exclusive Pilot Program and how it can help you make data-backed design decisions.