Physical and Sensory Inclusive Classroom Environment Scale (PSICS): Design and Validation

This dataset was utilized for the design and validation of a PSICS scale that assesses the physical and sensory characteristics of the learning environment, with a focus on classroom conditions identified in the literature as key to inclusive education. The scale was developed and tested with a sample of 197 Chilean educators, yielding five key dimensions that the literature had linked with inclusive learning environments. These findings provide a practical and evidence-based tool for educators, school administrators, and policymakers seeking to enhance classroom conditions and promote educational equity. Our work builds upon existing literature in inclusive education and environmental psychology, while addressing a gap in Latin American research regarding the physical and sensory aspects of learning spaces. What makes this contribution particularly innovative is that it goes beyond infrastructure, incorporating often-overlooked dimensions such as student participation and decision-making in the learning environment, furniture flexibility, diversification of school surfaces for various school activities, and sensory well-being, among others. The EFA identified five factors explaining 53% of the total variance: (1) Environmental Conditions and Infrastructure; (2) Furniture and Spatial Organization; (3) Size and Connectivity; (4) Participation and Flexibility; and (5) Classroom Satisfaction and Comfort. The final 27-item scale showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.935; McDonald’s ω = 0.936). Findings revealed that 53.6% of participants were dissatisfied with the physical and sensory conditions of their classrooms, reporting that these environments did not adequately support student learning and well-being. The lowest-rated items were indoor noise levels and students’ seating decisions. The scale provides valuable insights into the learning environment. It also offers a practical tool for schools and policymakers to evaluate and improve classroom conditions, supporting evidence-based decisions for more inclusive, equitable, and student-centered education.