Learning Resources

Abstract: No two individuals are 'wired' to process information or stimuli in their environment in the same way, yet the design of campus environments often focuses on the 'norm'. Meeting diverse needs on a spectrum of neurodiversity is an emerging concern for educational planning and design. We'll explore how physical environments can impact the educational experience by planning for neurodiversity and identify planning considerations that support equitable, inclusive campus environments to meet diverse social, emotional, and cognitive needs. This session aims to increase awareness, fluency, and sensitivity to assist planning efforts addressing neurodiversity that positively impact the built environment and the holistic experience and wellbeing of the campus community.

Abstract: Portland State University's (PSU) integrated planning process involved multiple departments, coalesced institutional and strategic goals, bolstered educational and industry ties, and focused on diversity to dismantle barriers within STEM disciplines. PSU pioneered a planning and design process for its new science building that amplified underrepresented voices to diversify the STEM workforce, dramatically shifting design outcomes and student pathways. This session will address how institutions can prioritize broad engagement in planning, and how foregrounding input from underrepresented groups can alter preconceptions and reveal the challenges that exist in institutional operational norms that inhibit student success.

Abstract: Feel the pulse of change in higher education beating a little faster? External trends that initially seem unrelated to education?political polarization, climate change resiliency, mass customization?can cause disruption and uncertainty within the structural and physical campus environment. This panel of researchers and futurists will illustrate how anticipation, agility, and thoughtful planning fosters flexibility, adaptation, and success for colleges and universities. Join our workshop to engage in dynamic brainstorms and discover how you can advocate for impactful responses to current trends, ensuring that your campus is prepared for tomorrow.

Abstract: Academic program misalignment can have serious consequences for institutions, such as a lack of support for competing priorities and unwieldy maintenance of administrative oversight. Students may also obtain degrees that are difficult to explain or find themselves caught in programs that require teach-outs to complete a discontinued course of study. This session will cover how planners can strategically invest institutional resources in academic program proposals to ensure programs are student centered, institutionally aligned, and collaborative. Join us to discover how you can effectively analyze and align programs, engage stakeholders, and manage expectations for academic programs at your institution.

Abstract: Academic office spaces have historically followed established norms. These patterns are changing to maximize and condense real estate, minimize operating costs, and adjust to remote and hybrid work. This session will examine fundamentals of faculty and administrative offices and review student adjacencies, hot-desking and co-sharing space trends, and the future of hybrid work environments. We'll spotlight three unique academic office solutions that cover both new construction and existing renovation construction types. Join us to benefit from lessons learned, identifying potential pitfalls and new opportunities.

Abstract: Championing excellence through campus initiatives, Morgan State University's Thurgood Marshall Hall centralizes diverse student services at the student's doorstep for a holistic focus on sustainability, wellness, and living-learning. We'll detail this facility's multi-phase, multi-story approach to densifying campus housing as enrollment soars, which preserves open space while integrating premier dining experiences. Join us to explore the financial, operational, experiential, and wellness outcomes of a hybrid housing and dining facility that encompasses multiple student services at one thriving HBCU, including planning and design aspects with scalable techniques for elevating campus life.

Abstract: Designing for the neurodivergent community necessitates a nuanced approach that recognizes their unique sensory experiences and perspectives. This research project delves into the intersection of the built environment, neurodiverse users, neuroarchitecture, and neuroscience to create spaces that enhance the neurodivergent experience and foster inclusivity on modern academic campuses. Come learn how environments that acknowledge neurodiversity and provide options to be alone together, to retreat, or to socialize are essential for ensuring inclusion and wellbeing for a diverse campus community.

Abstract: In order to reimagine and capitalize on the potential of its campus gateway, The Ohio State University (OSU) employed specific planning and development processes to achieve successful outcomes. A decade of public-private planning, land acquisition, rezoning, infrastructure upgrades, preservation, and academic and mixed-use development has transformed OSU's High Street entrance into an active and economically-viable campus gateway district. In this session we'll show you how to think beyond campus boundaries and traditional planning methods to transform town and gown interfaces.

Abstract: Institutions are struggling to increase retention and success for students from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds. Michigan State University's (MSU) Multicultural Center offers safe spaces for education, healing, community, and building solidarity with one other. From advocacy to implementation, the student-driven process behind multicultural center was authentic and inclusive, resulting in a multi-functional facility that serves a highly diverse set of cultural activities and promotes a sense of belonging and wellbeing. Involving students at the highest levels of project decision-making during planning and the design process can reinforce an institution's mission around education and commitment to creating authentic, inclusive campus environments.

Abstract: Aging campus buildings can have a negative impact on student retention and faculty ability to conduct modern research. At the same time, the effects of climate change add urgency to the challenge of managing these outdated campus facilities. We'll share insights from a nine-building comprehensive facility renewal planning effort to maintain the vitality of aging teaching and research facilities while addressing the physical and programmatic needs of contemporary education. This case study will provide a methodology for developing an actionable facility renewal and program enhancement plan that seamlessly incorporates into an existing sustainability and high-performance building framework.