An important point to make is that, while some of the learning labs inspired by the FCL have chosen to adopt the FCL model of learning zones and even some of the FCL furniture, branding and visual identity, European Schoolnet is not trying to provide a prescriptive FCL ‘blueprint’ or suggest that all labs must be identical. On the contrary, it recognises that all such spaces must be adapted to the local context and local needs. European Schoolnet is also very conscious to promote the message that creating a FCL is just a first step in a more comprehensive change management process that will require teachers and school leaders to adapt classrooms and other potential learning spaces throughout the whole school.
The main conceptual ideas behind the Future Classroom Lab, however, are clearly visible in this growing network of learning labs which have the following common elements:
- They provide flexible learning spaces that can be easily reconfigured according to the needs of different learning activities and that allow for easy repositioning of learners and teachers.
- They have a mission to host innovative learning. Learning activities taking place in the learning labs aim to incorporate new visions on pedagogy, 21st century skills and technology-enhanced learning.
- They are places both for student learning activities and teacher professional development, including meetings and discussions about education. A learning lab is a space for practice but also for reflection.
- They aim to involve and to connect different stakeholders. They create a dialogue between teachers, school leaders, policy-makers, commercial partners, students, parents, etc.
- They help to develop an open culture; for example, teachers can observe each other’s lessons and provide mentoring; students can use the learning lab to take part in European projects like eTwinning.
- Communication is an important part of engaging the stakeholders and informing the outside world about the activities. A learning lab can be an inspirational lighthouse for the area (e.g. for other schools in the region).