A switch to contemporary architecture in K-12 schools commenced since a long time ago with technology becoming ubiquitous in schools and other educational institutions. The authorities moved according to the changes and integrated many pedagogical devices to make learning more accessible and feasible. Unlike other generations, the millennials are inquisitive and have the habit to assimilate information from all possible sources because of the initiation of digital-based learning resources. With the entire community or group getting dependent on tech products, it is imperative to constitute virtual spaces to the existing facilities to support such kind of modern pedagogy

The introduction of Digital Signage serves as a great example of a digital shift that is being witnessed today. Incorporating these into the educational domain has only increased the chances of developing a pro digital mindset among scholars as well as pupils. 

Digital signage or digital signs use technologies like LCD, LED or projection screens are used to display content using digital images, videos, and other information which are majorly found in public spaces, restaurants, museums, stadiums, hotels, corporate buildings, etc. These display materials that are used in these locales for marketing, exhibitions, or to provide wayfinding. So, digital signage precisely consists of any size of screen displaying content in the form of virtual illustration or video. 

These began making its way into schools during the 2000s and administrators appeared to be happy to have equipment that let them engage with students easily and effectively. The main advantage is that it can be located anywhere and multiple messages can be displayed at the same time and there is also a provision to customize messages for a specific audience at a time. 

How digital signage can be integrated into various spaces in schools?

Hallways: this can be used to display school map, for safety alerts, promote post-school activities, morning and afternoon announcements.

Classrooms: display morning announcements, student performance, and assignment due dates.

Library: show new releases and display types of materials, rules and regulation

Cafeteria: display day’s menu and the prescribed intake of vitamins, carbohydrates, etc by a person in a day.

Auditorium: display information related to assembly

Staff Lounge: display changes in schedule like early dismissal or any kind of announcement or reminders.

The educational institutions from the beginning have struggled with updating students with information in a timely and effective manner. Be it informing students about an upcoming assembly, directing students during a fire alarm, or advising them about any other important thing, there is always a need for this kind of device especially in schools. Keeping students up to date is a challenge in itself and digital signage has alleviated the pressure from staff members.

As compared to other communication methods like intercom and mass SMS services, digital signage is undoubtedly cost-effective and user friendly. Nowadays, school authorities are consuming digital signage more frequently because they can conspicuously present information.

Currently, school administrators are also planning to execute digital signage in learning spaces as well. It is used as a platform for interaction between students and teachers and also making them multifunctional as possible. Indeed, display screens provide collaborative spaces for instance when two students plug in their computer and share content, collaboration is increased and the environment becomes functional.

As it is seen that the changes that we witness today is not only curriculum wise but the entire school architecture is undergoing a metamorphosis that echoes contemporary pedagogy moving towards a global change.