Impact of Colors in Classroom: A Visual Study on Educational Attention and Psychological Comfort
Keywords:
classroom design, color psychology, student attention, psychological comfort, environmental psychology, mixed-methods researchAbstract
This study investigates the impact of classroom color schemes on students’ educational attention and psychological comfort, recognizing the physical learning environment as a key contributor to academic performance and emotional well-being. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data to explore how warm (red, orange, yellow), cool (blue, green, violet), and neutral (white, beige, grey) color themes influence learners in real classroom settings. The quantitative phase involved a sample of 240 secondary school students, equally divided into three groups based on the color schemes of their classrooms. Data on focus were collected using a standardized Attention Assessment Scale (AAS) and analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post-hoc tests. The results revealed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in attention scores, with students in cool-colored classrooms scoring the highest (M = 81.15) and those in warm-colored classrooms scoring the lowest (M = 72.40). The qualitative phase included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 30 students (10 from each color group). Thematic analysis revealed three major themes: (1) emotional calmness and focus in cool environments, (2) overstimulation in warm settings, and (3) boredom and detachment in neutral rooms. These themes complemented the quantitative findings, demonstrating that color schemes significantly influence both cognitive engagement and emotional comfort. The study concludes that cool color schemes are most effective in enhancing attention and providing psychological ease, whereas warm colors may hinder focus and induce stress. Neutral schemes offer visual simplicity but lack emotional engagement. The findings contribute to educational psychology and environmental design literature and suggest actionable strategies for optimizing classroom environments through intentional use of color.
