How Informal Learning Spaces Are Changing the Way Kids Learn with Anne Fullenkamp

About this episode

Anne Fullenkamp discusses how thoughtfully designed learning spaces can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

What if your school building wasn't just a place where learning happens, but one of the most powerful teachers in the room? In this episode, Mark Barga sits down with Anne Fullenkamp, Senior Director of Creative Experiences at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, to explore how thoughtfully designed spaces can spark curiosity, boost confidence, and expand what students believe is possible. From hallways that invite discovery to classrooms that adapt to every learner, Anne reveals how architecture can quietly shape mindsets, behaviors, and futures. Drawing from her accidental journey from practicing architect to museum exhibit designer—where she's spent nearly two decades living alongside her own designs—Anne shares how truly student-centered environments are built through empathy, collaboration, and treating schools like the laboratories they can be. Takeaways: Buildings as learning tools : Design schools that actively participate in learning, not just house it—every wall, hallway, and corner can tell a story Start with "what if" : Center design charrettes on how spaces will look and feel, not just how many seats you need Remove barriers to curiosity : Create environments where…

People in this episode

Host: Kevin Stoller

Guest: Anne Fullenkamp

Topics covered

• informal learning spaces
• architecture in education
• student-centered environments
• curiosity in learning

Keywords

• learning environments
• design thinking
• education architecture
• children's museum

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: the Better Learning Podcast

Places: Pittsburgh

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