Learning environments that work: Softening the boundaries

Abstract

This paper draws on recent Irish and international research from a number of disciplines to identify contemporary concerns and possible future directions in relation to learning environments in the early years. It is framed around the following questions: Firstly, in 2015, what kinds of theoretical, pedagogical and societal concerns are influencing our thinking about learning environments for young children? Secondly, how do learning environments look and feel like to their users and thirdly, what kinds of research can deepen our understanding of the learning experiences of children aged 0 to 8 years growing up in Ireland? The existing research base in Ireland on this issue is limited. The questions raised at the close of the paper are designed to stimulate discussion about establishing an inter-disciplinary research agenda on learning environments in the early years.