Spaces for Knowledge Generation

After the first meeting of the Reference group we have been able to formulate a number of key principles. There was general endorsement of the following principles: 

1. Importance of withholding 15% of building budget to modify and adjust spaces after construction. 

2. Learning space designs must be context-specific.

3. Spaces should be ‘future proofed’ and non-deterministic: that is should incorporate maximum adaptability and not be unduly dependent on current technology.

4. Students’ own technologies and technological preferences should be supported.

5. The importance of student-driven design: generally speaking this is not done well, and we should be seeking student input.

6. The crucial elements of informal learning: comfortable seating; protection from weather; access to power; wifi; extended hours of access; access to food; lockers;  and reconfigurable spaces, including lighting and furnishings.

7. The need for a systematic way to design informal learning.

8. ‘Sandpit’ or experimental spaces should be used to develop and test prototype designs. This also supports the professional development of teaching staff.

9. Desperate need for a range of spaces to support (formal) active learning.

Our project aims to co-ordinate with the University’s current redevelopment of physical infrastructure as far as possible. We are designing a project that will have tangible outcomes and can key into the La Trobe project in a timely manner. We propose to develop three types of sandpit spaces: a formal active learning space; an informal, collaborative learning space; and ‘eddy’ spaces,  including an informal outdoor learning space.  We have had initial expressions of interest in making suitable spaces available from the Library, Professor Swerrisen and Professor de Vaus. We also have crucial stakeholder groups that feed into our project, and we are guided by the expertise of  a number of leading international authorities: Professor Phil Long (MIT/UQ), Dr Cyprien Lomas (UBC), Dr Steve Ehrmann (TLT Flashlight Program), and Professor Gráinne Conole (OU).