ProjectProject

Spaces for knowledge generation: a framework for designing student learning environments for the future

Project Information

Year Funded:
2008
Grant (ex GST):
$220,000
Project Status:
Ongoing
Program:
Priority Projects
Project Keywords:
Design principles, Flexible learning spaces, Learning and teaching space, Learning space, Model for institutional change, Student knowledge production, Student-directed learning
Project Discipline:
Non-disciplinary

Institutions

  • La Trobe University (Lead)
  • Charles Sturt University
  • Apple
  • Kneeler Design P/L

Project Leader

  1. Dr Dr Kay Souter
    La Trobe University
    k [dot] souter [at] latrobe [dot] edu [dot] au

Project Outcome

The project will produce an implementation guide including design principles developed with strong student input to design forward-looking and adaptable learning spaces, and promote the adoption of teaching practices to support student-directed learning and knowledge production. Longer-term outcomes include strategic cultural change to university practices and physical changes to campuses to advance learning and teaching.

Project Methodology

The project will focus on designing flexible learning spaces which can be used by as many disciplines as possible, and in a sustainable manner.

The priorities are:

  • to collect in-depth data on student needs, desires and perception regarding learning environments;
  • to maximise student input into learning space design and models for strategic development of learning spaces and teaching practices; and
  • to develop a ?future proofed? model for institutional change and a design guide for adaptable learning space development.
The processes for the project will be modelled on the knowledge generation idea which is at its centre, using a collaborative and consultative approach to elicit new and innovative ideas.

Applied research methods will include:
  • desk research and literature review;
  • forums with stakeholders and industry partners;and
  • student-staff engagement through structured discussions and design exercises.
Forums and discussions will be video/audio recorded and selectively transcribed to provide further data for qualitative analysis.

The information on this project's page was correct at the time of funding. Changes may have occurred since.

The information on this project's page was updated 25 March, 2009.

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