Building & BaLA Initiatives

Building as Learning Aid (BaLA) is a concept that aims to improve education by making school buildings more child-friendly and fun. It incorporates ideas like activity-based learning, inclusive education, and making the most of a school’s expensive physical assets. The concept was developed by Vinyas, Centre for Architectural Research and Design with support from UNICEF.

BaLA involves modifying the building’s elements to create unique three-dimensional spaces that can be used for learning in different ways. These elements can be located in both interior and exterior spaces, such as classrooms, corridors, and backyards. Some examples of BaLA teaching aids include:

Mirrors: Can be fixed vertically on walls so that children can move back and forth in front of them to observe changes in their reflections. Mirrors can teach children concepts like left and right, image inversion, and reflection.

Angles: Can be marked on the floor and ceiling under a door shutter.

Ceiling fans: Can be painted with color wheels to create ever-changing formations.

Flagpoles: Their moving shadows can be used as sundials to help children understand how to measure time.

Trees: Planting trees that change color with the seasons can create a comfortable outdoor learning space.