Designing Spaces for Effective Learning

1. Designing Spaces for Effective Learning Ros Smith, JISC Joint Information Systems Committee Supporting education and research

2. A guide to designing spaces for effective learning • Launched at JISC Conference March 2006 • Focuses on the role and impact of technology on physical learning space design in FE and HE • Builds on the JISC eSpaces Study, University of Birmingham (2005) www.ldu.bham.ac.uk/espaces • Copies distributed UK-wide to Vice Chancellors, Directors of Estates, of Library and Information Services & Media Services, and Heads of e-learning and of Academic Practice • Also available from info@jisc.ac.uk

3. Takes readers on a ‘walkthrough’ featuring different types of space Examines the role for technology in each space Brings issues relating to estates management, space utilisation, pedagogy and technology into one forum Identifies some core principles for effective practice Provides case studies of refurbished and new-build projects demonstrating vision and innovation in embedding technology into learning spaces Designing Spaces for Effective Learning

4. Identifies what is innovative and emergent, and.. Provides architects’ floor plans for three types of space based on current thinking: general teaching, vocational and learning centres Explores the relationship between redesigned, technology-rich spaces and learning potential Designing Spaces for Effective Learning • Concludes with a checklist of key points for senior managers “Spaces are themselves agents for change. Changed spaces will change practice.” Image: AMA Alexi Marmot Associates

5. Key messages from Designing Spaces for Effective Learning “Understanding what makes an effective design is important. The best are likely to assist all within the institution to work more productively and to produce learners who are confident, adaptable, and inspired to learn.” Designing Spaces for Effective Learning, JISC 2006

6. Key messages from Designing Spaces for Effective Learning There can be no one blueprint for the design of learning and teaching spaces but “What is important is that designs of physical spaces are linked to the institution’s strategic vision for teaching and learning and that this is articulated in every detail of the design, and shared with all stakeholders, including learners.” Designing Spaces for Effective Learning, JISC 2006

7. Key messages from Designing Spaces for Effective Learning Learning needs to be Pervasive Flexible Active Social Inclusive And continuous

8. An illustration

9. Key messages from Designing Spaces for Effective Learning “Embedding technology into learning and teaching spaces is likely to be an evolutionary process rather than a revolutionary one.” “Start by establishing your pedagogic aims, then review the design and the technological infrastructure in the whole institution.” “To resolve what is the best way forward, effective dialogues are needed to establish what will be required from the spaces, what changes in pedagogic approach are desirable and why.” Designing Spaces for Effective Learning, JISC 2006

10. Key messages from the case studies Current designs show… • Increasing support for social, collaborative and blended models of learning • More embedded use of audio-visual technologies • Increasing hybridisation of spaces • Flexibility in design, fittings and furniture to ensure sustainability

11. In the future, we can expect to see… Spaces designed to provide simultaneous support for f2f and virtual learning Spaces developed to support innovative, experiential learning in f2f contexts A higher profile given to social areas supporting problem-solving and collaborative learning based around mobile and wireless and audio visual technologies Greater emphasis on developing learners’ wider skills, especially creativity and adaptability Key messages from Designing Spaces for Effective Learning Image: University of Northumbria

12. Final words “The design of our learning spaces should become a physical representation of the institution’s vision and strategy for learning – responsive, inclusive, and supportive of attainment by all.” Designing Spaces for Effective Learning, JISC, 2006

13. Final words “Review space management procedures to ensure effective reporting and decision-making structure. A cross-institutional management group comprising directors of finance, estates and student support services, academic heads and a senior member of IT Services will be needed.” Designing Spaces for Effective Learning, JISC, 2006

14. Further guidance for managers • JISC infoNet is producing a web-based resource based around this guide - Designing Spaces for Effective Learning can be viewed at www.jiscinfonet.ac.uk/infokits/learning-space-design

15. Further information • Email: • s.knight@jisc.ac.uk and ros.smith@gpisolutions.co.uk • Web: • e-Learning and Innovation - www.jisc.ac.uk/elearning_innovation.html • Designing Spaces for Effective Learning - www.jisc.ac.uk/eli_learningspaces.html • Designing Spaces for Effective Learning www.jiscinfonet.ac.uk/infokits/learning-space-design • Mailing List: • Pedagogy and Innovation mailing list - eped-info@jiscmail.ac.uk