1. "Redesigning Learning Spaces"
Technology as we know has become a major factor in learning environments, therefore, higher education is adopting educational technology. With this, more and more institutions are promoting active learning spaces that emphasize collaboration.
2. Focus on Collaboration
Ways to allow more focus on collaboration within learning environments include specifying long tables instead of the traditional individual tables, furniture formations in a circular pattern, moveable furniture that can easily transition into new formations as activities change, and comfortable meetings that both students and instructors can utilize. Also, as previously stated, as technology progresses to be a top trend, placing outlets through the space allows for both students and staff to not be limited on where and when they can connect.
3. Formal and Informal Spaces
Formal spaces of lectures and the traditional classroom remain important, but informal spaces such as lobbies and hallways are now being seen as places for collaboration and academic work can be done as well.
This post really goes well with our AD 440 project, good thinking! I like the third point you chose to share because it is important to have those formal places in the learning environment but it is just as important to have the informal spaces as well.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of you, Emilys! I think that the trends are going towards that mix of collaborative and private, and that's going to be our biggest struggle as up and coming designers. I especially like the first picture you posted, because I think the round tables create a much more flexible and inviting version of many of the active learning spaces we've seen in the past. Thanks for the helpful info!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the relevant post, Emily! These are great examples and applications for our 440 project :] I like the first picture, in particular, because it provides a better understanding of the active learning spaces; a requirement for our project. Thanks again for the insight!
ReplyDeleteI also agree that this post is great for our current 440 project we are all working on! I definitely think the post talks about 3 essential types of spaces that we will be focusing a lot on in the project. I would love to see how all of our project solutions will enhance and better the learning environment and process.
ReplyDeleteLove the images! The 3rd one with the fun green stools - it looks like a very social space - very informal and easy to be 'comfortable' in. The last picture - love the wall and ceiling details - both make a very commonly seen lounge area unique. The space kind of makes you feel like you are on the water - very relaxing....
ReplyDeleteI love that you decided to do this blog about higher education, seeing as we are currently working on an education project. I will definitely take each of these points to heart when working on my project.
ReplyDeleteOne of your images has so many seating arrangements, it makes me want to be in the space! I think giving a variety of options is important in a collaborative space. I also love the large spaces and all of the possible ways to separate them.
ReplyDeleteI really like the points you made and feel that they are very valid. The information is very relevent and useful to the project we're currently working on. I feel that collaboration and promoting certain actions through a space is becoming very popular.
ReplyDeleteLooking at your examples and illustrations of higher education makes me excited to work on our final project. When you see how awesome educational environments can be, it makes me inspired to find the best solutions.
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