How Lighting and Color Affect Learning
Two largely unnoticed factors that contribute to learning are lighting and color. Two sides of the same coin, lighting refers to the brightness and temperature of light emitted from a source (such as the sun or a light bulb), while color refers to the wavelength of light reflected off a surface. Both strongly affect perception, data absorption, and mood - all of which, in turn, affect learning.
Keeping your study or work area light and bright ensures that the brain is able to properly focus and gather information. Dimly lit environments, on the other hand, make it tougher to read and perceive object differences - also, studies show that dim light reduces the brain’s ability to collect information.
Light temperature is just as important as brightness. Cool fluorescent lighting, for example, has been shown to contribute to stress and anxiety. Blue light from prolonged exposure to electronic devices also could lead to damaged retinal cells. Stress, anxiety, and poor eyesight all adversely affect learning - in fact, students studying in natural light actually tend to perform 25% better than peers in cool light. For optimal learning, look for natural light or a light source with a color temperature of about 5,000 Kelvin (this rating can be found right on most light bulb boxes).
The colors of objects and words also influence the quality of learning. All colors have different physical properties; for example, blues and greens tend to be calming, while reds communicate urgency. Strategic use of color in study materials can help grab attention and enhance memory. However, too much color can over-stimulate the brain. The best option is to create a balanced environment with a mostly-neutral backdrop punctuated by pops of color that emphasize important details.
Interior designers have long touted the effects of color and light on the human experience - and now we know that brightness, light temperature, and color contribute to quality of learning as well. So keep that study or work area mostly neutral, and keep it brightly lit with natural light, for best results!