Learning Resources

Abstract: Active learning has been a growing trend in higher education for decades based on its positive impact on student learning and success. Colleges and universities have invested resources into expanding this teaching approach by using active learning classrooms (ALCs). But why have some institutions been successful at rapidly growing their ALCs and learning spaces, while others have struggled? This article, focusing on the higher education arena, summarizes the best practices from a large-scale study that uncovered factors that led to successful scaling of learning spaces and pedagogical approaches in colleges and universities.

Abstract: The University of Kentucky (UK) and the University of Kentucky Esports Club worked together to establish the University of Kentucky Esports Lounge. Students were surveyed on their gaming needs, and the resulting wish list (i.e., equipment selection, space configuration, furniture, etc.) fed into the decision-making process by all constituents. The project budget was derived by a larger construction project at the University that focused on student recruitment, community, and connection to the non-student demographic. The UK team ultimately planned and launched the custom facility to meet users’ particular needs—while finding a way for the University to produce an additional revenue stream.

Abstract: Stories from the Educational Underground: The New Frontier for Learning and Work
by Peter Smith
Kendall Hunt Publishing: Dubuque, Iowa: 2021
148 pages
ISBN 978-1792472930

Abstract: American industries, professional organizations, individual companies, and higher education institutions continue to struggle to attract employees from underrepresented populations. Future-forward thinking is required to ensure a multicultural workforce. The authors, a design educator at a predominantly white, Midwestern university, and a high school principal at a multicultural urban school district, developed an intentional collaboration—partnerships between secondary and postsecondary institutions—to bridge the gap. In this article, they share strategies they developed for recruiting and retaining underrepresented students through intentional planning and design of competency-based, personalized learning models.

Abstract: Edited by Eugene L. Zdziarski, Norbert W. Dunkel, and J. Michael Rollo
Routledge: Oxfordshire, England: 2021
388 Pages
ISBN-13: 978-0367333720

Abstract: Ohio University's esports program and gaming facilities have created opportunity and facilitated change across the physical campus and beyond. This session will provide insight and real-life examples of how the university integrated esports into the overall campus curriculum and designed flexible learning spaces to support it. Come learn how the needs of modern students are shaping the design, growth, integration, and future of esports at Ohio University.

Abstract: This article discusses an approach for campus meetings and events, such as study sessions, student group meetings, guest speaker presentations, etc., this coming academic year. It also aims to leverage the discussion about near-term needs to generate a more conceptual and flexible understanding of programming, space use, and virtual interaction within higher education.

Abstract: This session explores the impact of climate change on higher education and how academia may respond. We begin by examining potential changes to physical campuses, from transportation and food service to grounds and the built environment. Next we consider implications for university research, curriculum, and teaching, then envision how relationships between campuses, their local communities, and the world. We conclude by outlining ways academic institutions can strategize and plan for medium- and long-term transformation, starting now.

Abstract: Public universities have a responsibility to deliver high-quality education safely to a large number of students. Planning effective instructional delivery while minimizing transmission of COVID is a timely, complex example of balancing disparate educational needs. We'll discuss how the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a public flagship university with a large residential population, changed instructional delivery through a process of design, implementation, and evaluation across academics, educational, and residential spaces. Join us to gain insight on our post-pandemic approach, encompassing planning, execution, and monitoring based on public health guidance, institutional needs, physical space, and academic requirements.

Abstract: HyFlex courses and programs provide opportunities for both classroom and online learning, allowing students to choose their participation mode for each class session. In this presentation, we’ll: 1) explain the HyFlex teaching approach, 2) briefly review design values and principles, and 3) consider ways that faculty and design professionals can create accessible, equitable and high-quality learning for all students, regardless of participation mode. We'll also discuss implications for institutional planning associated with the implementation of HyFlex courses and programs.