As I mentioned in a previous post, the first thing I did when I got my own classroom was paint, and it made such a huge difference.
Since then I have painted every single one of my classrooms (up to five so far!) and helped my sister and my work bestie paint their rooms too. The way I see it, you have to stare at those walls for 1/3 of your day for most of the year. It might as well be something you enjoy looking at.
(Side note: I really need to post some before and after pictures of my rooms. Not sure if I should make that it's own post or just share them on Instagram.)
I think it really conveys a sense of caring to your students as well. Trust me, they notice when they walk into your room at the start of the year and see that your room isn't the same institution beige as all of their other classes.
But it goes beyond just aesthetics. Something as simple as the color of your classroom walls can actually affect your students' learning and behavior. For example, one study found that students in classrooms with light blue and green painted walls had lower blood pressure and pulse, and better behavior than when they were in a room with brown and off-white walls. Another found that monotone environments may induce anxiety and lead to irritability and an inability to concentrate.
Before I put paint to wall I did research on the psychology of color and the impact of color on students (especially those with disabilities). Here is what I found.
Understanding Color Psychology
Color psychology is the study of how color affects human behavior and emotion. Different colors can have different psychological effects on individuals. For example, red is often associated with energy, passion, and aggression, while blue is associated with calmness, tranquility, and focus. By understanding the psychology of color, we can use it to create a positive learning environment for our students.
Each color has its unique set of psychological effects that can impact an individual's emotions and behavior. Here are some common associations with specific colors:
- Red: Often linked to energy, passion, and aggression, red can be an attention-grabber but may also evoke feelings of anxiety or restlessness.
- Blue: Associated with calmness, tranquility, and focus, blue can create a serene and focused atmosphere.
- Green: Symbolizing nature, growth, and balance, green can promote relaxation and concentration.
- Yellow: Representing happiness, optimism, and creativity, yellow can stimulate mental activity and inspire positive feelings. However, too much yellow may cause agitation or overstimulation.
- Purple: Combining the stability of blue and the energy of red, purple is often linked to creativity, luxury, and wisdom.
- Orange:Often associated with energy, warmth, and enthusiasm, orange can evoke feelings of excitement and happiness, but it can also be perceived as bold or attention-grabbing.
The Best Wall Colors for a Classroom
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to selecting the best wall color for a classroom, there are certain colors that have been proven to be more effective than others.
Blue: Studies have found that blue can help reduce stress and increase focus, making it an excellent choice for classrooms. This is especially beneficial for students with anxiety, ADHD, or other attention-related disabilities.
Green: Green is a natural and soothing color that can create a sense of balance and harmony in the classroom. It is also associated with growth and renewal, which can be motivating for students.
Yellow: Yellow is a cheerful and energizing color that can boost mood and creativity. However, it is important to use this color sparingly, as too much yellow can be overwhelming and cause anxiety.
Neutral Colors: Neutral colors such as white, beige, and gray can create a clean and organized space, which can promote a sense of calmness and focus in the classroom.
Colors to Avoid
While some colors can have a positive impact on student learning and behavior, others can have the opposite effect. Here are a few colors to avoid:
Red: Red is an intense and stimulating color that can increase heart rate and blood pressure. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and aggression, which is not conducive to a positive learning environment.
Orange: Orange is a vibrant and energizing color that can stimulate creativity and enthusiasm. However, it can also be distracting and overstimulating, especially for students with ADHD or sensory processing disorders.
Dark colors: Dark colors such as black and dark brown can create a sense of heaviness and negativity in the classroom. This can lead to feelings of depression and fatigue, which can negatively impact student motivation and productivity.
Crafting the Perfect Palette: Using Color Psychology in the Classroom
By being mindful of the psychological effects of colors, we can create classroom environments that promote learning, focus, and positive emotions. Here are some additional tips to consider when selecting colors for your classroom:
- Balance Warm and Cool Colors: Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can evoke feelings of excitement and energy, while cool colors like blue, green, and purple can promote relaxation and focus. Striking a balance between these colors can create a harmonious and stimulating atmosphere.
- Consider the Needs of Your Students: When choosing colors, take into account the unique needs and preferences of your students, especially those with learning disabilities or sensory sensitivities. For example, cool and calming colors might be more beneficial for students with ADHD, while high-contrast colors could be helpful for students with visual impairments.
- Factor in Your Decor: If you're taking the time to paint, chances are you have a classroom theme or design scheme already in mind. Try to match your color choices to that. When we had a cafe theme, we did a soft, warm brown with accent colors. For my superhero classroom I used off white with dark gray accents to pair with the bright colors of the Carson Dellosa Aim High line of decor I used. This year I didn't have time to paint my whole room so it is the original beige with 2 lovely green walls to watch the botanical decor I've been using.
- Experiment with Accent Colors: As I said, you don't have to repaint your entire classroom to benefit from color psychology. Try just painting a single wall. Ideally you should choose a wall you want to draw attention to, such as around your whiteboard or where you place a word wall or other anchor charts.
- Consider the size of your classroom: If your classroom is small or cramped, choose lighter colors that will make the space feel more open and airy. If your classroom is large or cavernous, choose darker colors that will make the space feel more cozy and intimate.
- Avoid Overly Bright Colors: Brightly colored walls (as well as high light levels) may increase glare. They can also be overwhelming and lead to restlessness, particularly for students with sensory processing issues or ADHD. Therefore, the wall color in a classroom should not be too bright. Avoid super glossy paint for the same reason.
- Pay Attention to Lighting and Glare: Lighting can play a significant role in creating a comfortable learning environment, especially for students with visual impairments or light sensitivity. Soft, natural light is ideal. Avoid harsh fluorescent lighting, and consider using adjustable blinds or curtains to control sunlight. If natural light isn't an option, place some lamps around the room. It makes a huge difference! I use a set of remote plugs like these to turn mine on and off each day with no hassle.
- Limit Exposure to Fumes: This is for yourself and your students. Firstly, I highly recommend painting your classroom at the start of the year before students return. That way there is plenty of time for it to air out. When buying paint, go for one with low VOCs. I usually get Valspar Signature paint from Lowes and have never had an issues personally while painting (and I have allergies and asthma) and it doesn't leave behind a smell.
Sources
Barrett, P., Davies, F., Zhang, Y., & Barrett, L. (2015) The impact of classroom design on pupils' learning: Final results of a holistic, multi-level analysis, Building and Environment, 89. 118-133 .
Barrett, P., Davies, F., Zhang, Y., & Barrett, L. (2017). The Holistic Impact of Classroom Spaces on Learning in Specific Subjects. Environment and Behavior, 49(4), 425–451.
Chang, Bo; Xu, Renmei; and Watt, Tiffany (2018). "The Impact of Colors on Learning,"
Adult Education Research Conference. https://newprairiepress.org/aerc/2018/papers/30
Grangaard, Ellen Mannel, "Effects of color and light on selected elementary students" (1990).
UNLV Retrospective Theses & Dissertations. 2961
Yildirim K, Cagatay K, Ayalp N. Effect of wall colour on the perception of classrooms. Indoor and Built Environment. 2015;24(5):607-616.
https://profcamp.tripod.com/ClassroomDesign/IdealClass.html
https://www.verywellmind.com/color-psychology-2795824
