Learning Resources

Abstract: Determining where to invest in terms of academic programming and staffing can oftentimes be difficult due to competing interests by academic programs as well as a lack of resources. This session will describe how one university sought to improve academic planning and resource allocation within their academic units, and the software solution they used to do it. We'll discuss the university's example and broader best practices for reviewing metrics in research, finances, benchmarking, and predictive modeling as well as staffing and resource allocation related to academic planning.

Abstract: In 2015, Oregon State University's 300- and 600-seat arena classrooms welcomed their first students. Now, we have detailed analysis that measures the effectiveness of these classrooms. This session will discuss optimal pedagogical strategies for round classrooms, explain the IT infrastructure that makes these spaces successful, and provide insight into how data is analyzed for meaningful feedback. We'll share initial research on academic impact, faculty feedback, lessons learned, and next-generation trends in arena classroom design.

Abstract: Interdisciplinary scientific research is the new normal in academia. Campus planning for interdisciplinary research requires special tools and analytics that align the needs of increasingly diverse research environments with existing facilities capabilities and new characterizations of research neighborhoods. To remain relevant within the world-wide scientific community, campuses must free research space planning from traditional boundaries in order to promote collaborative synergies. This session will introduce new analytical assessment tools, organizational principles, and planning strategies supporting interdisciplinary research. Come learn how to create an open-ended, actionable, and living planning document that ensures long-term relevance and viability.

Abstract: The boom-and-bust cycle of North Dakota's economy creates a difficult environment for physical planning. We will examine University of North Dakota's (UND) response to the decline in public funding along with a state mandate to increase space utilization and decrease deferred maintenance, demonstrating how it provided the impetus to focus investment on high impact, transdisciplinary projects. You will learn how compromise in a planning process can help achieve both individual and collective goals as well as contribute to a more holistic university vision.

Abstract: Nationally, many campuses are finding innovative pathways to achieving carbon neutrality that are feasible enough for others to build on. We will share how two universities charted paths to carbon neutrality and have become living laboratories where new ideas can be tested, refined, and prototyped. This session will provide tools and techniques to comprehend a campus's carbon profile, set carbon reductions goals, and explore alternative solutions to carbon-intensive practices in campus and space planning, infrastructure, and operations.

Abstract: Effectively integrating growth is an ongoing challenge that needs vision and attention. To preserve its best qualities, the University of Oregon seeks to grow via innovative ways, building upon its open space system and the creation of a campus physical framework vision, informed by a discourse with the campus community, leadership, and thought leaders. We will provide examples of multiple ways to structure campus growth, receive input from leadership, and effectively engage the campus community.

Abstract: This tour will explore the history and development University of Maryland, College Park's campus along with the UMD Arboretum and Botanical Garden. We'll discuss the organization of the campus from its 1803 origins to its 20th century expansions, which created iconic spaces lined with Colonial Revival structures. Then we'll look at the campus as both layered landscape typologies and an instrument of pedagogy and research, focusing on the formation of UMD Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Abstract: Norwich University has fundamentally transformed its academic core, updating over 45% of its teaching space on campus. Stitched together by newly conceived landscape solutions, three renovations and one new building have reinvigorated central campus. All campuses face aging core academic facilities, often housed in important historic buildings. Supporting current program needs without compromising original intent requires thoughtful and creative approaches to revitalizing these structures. Come learn how Norwich reimagined its central campus for contemporary research, teaching, and learning without compromising the integrity of its historic structures.

Abstract: This report was produced by the researcher awarded the M. Perry Chapman Prize for 2016–2017.

This research evaluates the role the campus built environment plays in student retention and graduation. The relationship between objective and perceived measures of the physical campus and student academic performance was examined using the California State University (CSU) campuses as the sample. The results show that both objective and perceived measures are significantly associated with academic performance and provide higher education institutions with insight regarding the role of the physical campus in enhancing student retention and graduation rates.