Making sure the work is complete when the final day rolls around at University is important. Having the right working environment will help you to succeed while at University. Therefore, choosing the right student accommodation is important. It should be of high importance to a student that they pass their exams, after all you are paying a lot. There are a few factors that can cause a student to under perform in their work. Understanding the importance of these can have a dramatic effect on the quality of your work come the end of your time at University. The areas that should be considered include: noise, colour, furniture, lighting and use of space.
Noise
Noise has a massive impact on a student’s ability to perform. A noisy environment can cause you to become very distracted. Finding a quiet space where you can work will help you to produce the best possible work. It is sometimes hard to find a quiet place, so don’t forget that you can always use music as a substitute. Music can help your work to flow, it is important however that you choose a genre of music that is not distracting. Try to avoid any songs with lyrics and refrain from listening to quick tempo music that makes you want to dance.
Colour
The colour of your room can have a dramatic effect on your productivity and creativity. Selecting the right colour can be dependent on the courses you are taking. An example of this would be blue and yellow. Both stimulate the mind to be more productive. Blue is a calming colour and can help to increase a person’s mental focus. On the other hand, the colour yellow boosts imagination and creativity. This is the perfect colour for somebody who is completing an art based project. Colours that you should try and stay away from include red as it is associated with physical endeavour and can become very distracting when trying to keep your head in your work. When looking for accommodation in Birmingham, look for places where they have used these positive colours, this will help you to work.
Furniture
Another aspect that can affect a student’s ability to perform is furniture. Surprisingly, the way in which you choose to lay out your furniture in a room can cause both positive or negative effects on your ability to perform. Boring furniture has a negative effect, to prevent this you want furniture that is comfortable and stylish which allows for both relaxation and productivity when it is needed. Work out how it is you like to work, what makes you feel comfortable and the sort of environment you prefer to live in. Look at different types of accommodation including: studios, apartments and community houses.
Lighting
Having a dark, dull room can have a bad effect on a student’s productivity. It is always better to work in the light, than in the dark. However, it seems that artificial light can have a negative effect, when you are required to use your eyes while working, for example for reading text or watching video. The recommendation is that you stay between 300-500 lux. This is the optimal range that will have a positive effect on your work. Look for buildings that are well lit with multiple windows allowing for good, natural light and an effective work space.
Use of Space
Having a tidy space in your accommodation in which you can work is key to producing high level work. The best way to do this is by having lots of draw space to put things away. Having a overloaded desk can cause distraction and lead to low quality and slow productivity. Create a space in which you can perform well.
Unihousing offers a range of student accommodation, we hope to offer students attending the University of Birmingham a place they can call home. This year we have even more studios and apartments in Selly Oak and the surrounding area that we offer to student.
