Diverse Color Schemes Enhance Learning

LOS ANGELES — The colors of an educational setting can greatly affect the overall learning experience, according to experts at Dunn-Edwards. Dunn –Edwards, a leading provider in ultra premium, low and Zero VOC paints, weighed in on how certain color palettes can enhance learning.

“The best palette is a range of colors using light hues with deeper accents to provide a stimulating environment,” said Sara McLean, color expert at Dunn-Edwards, in a statement. “For example, a softened, sage green paired with a pop of orange catches the eye without being overwhelming. Creating a monotone color scheme tends to not work for children. As the lack of color doesn’t engage the senses.”

Nature-based greens create a calming and restful atmosphere, McLean said, which makes studying and learning much easier. Softened yellows can create a cheery and warm atmosphere to inspire creativity while blues reminiscent of the ocean can bring a kind of tranquil creativity. Violets and soft lavenders can also engage students creatively, according to McLean. For best results, she said, opt for blues, greens, violet and turquoise.

“Classrooms should incorporate a variety of colors to reduce the monotony and increase mental acuity. Warm colors tend to make large spaces feel more intimate, while cooler colors make smaller rooms appear large,” McLean said in a statement. “By moderating the use between warm and cool, a classroom environment can make a child feel engaged without feeling overly stimulated.”

But preferred coloration can change with age groups. For example, young children tend to be more attracted to warm, bright colors, McLean said.

“Parents and teachers can see that just by looking down the toy aisles and looking at the brighter toys for young age groups. As children age, they grow to an interest towards pastels in elementary school to brighter medium-cool colors in middle school,” McLean said in a statement. “In high school, darker colors are preferred and there is less preference for primary colors.”

McLean suggests five color palettes from Dunn-Edwards for enhanced learning:
• Sand Dune, Rainy Lake, Striking Red and Green Lane
• Practical Tan, Pine Mist, Lavender Princess and Candied Apple
• Quiet Splendor, Cottage White, Greenhouse Glass and Water Baby
• Jakarta, Hidden Hills, Rich Honey and October Haze
• Dry Creek, The Blue, Emerald Pool and Madera

With more than 85 years as a paint provider in the Southwest, with 113 company stores in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas.