Perhaps the most obvious part of a physical learning environment is that which is seen by the eyes – the visuals. A traditional classroom is full of wall content – colorful, bright posters highlighting various learning topics and processes. However, to what extent is this content helpful and when does it become distracting to students’ learning. This aspect of physical environment differs the most between primary and intermediate levels. At the primary level, students are more distracted and show less learning in a classroom with greater wall content (Fisher, Godwin, Seltman, 2014). However, the same researchers cite that older students in intermediate classrooms are able to ignore such extraneous stimuli successfully as focus and attention improves with age. Regardless of age though, wall content needs to be thought through as too much can result in a negative effect on student learning at any age (Ramirez, 2014). Content needs to be selective – useful and helpful – carrying a meaning for students.

An online resource for teachers, TeachHub pushes teachers to ask, “how can my decorations enhance student learning this year,” as what is on the walls has “enormous potential to ‘sink in’” (Catapano, n.d., p.1). They provide three positive features of meaningful wall content. First, is the use of academic posters? These posters should be prioritized over meaningless content for the sake of décor as when students are not listening to a teacher their attention goes to the physical surroundings. Students should be looking at content that is in accord with their academic learning. Next, wall content should feature student work. Seeing the end product of their work displayed is a moment of “pride and ownership” for students (Catapano, n.d., p.1), a validation which promotes learning. Lastly, any further content should promote community, visuals related to “togetherness or mutual understanding” (Catapano, n.d., p.1). These can include visuals for students’ goals, questions and concerns. Catapano (n.d.) explains these three aspects, learning, ownership, and community are so important because of their positive affects on students’ growth.