A forum will take place in Melbourne in March that will bring together a range of experts around the subject ‘New Generation Learning Spaces’.

The event organisers say the evolving nature of technology is forcing universities to rethink the campus as a learning environment and how they undertake the design and development of the spaces where formal learning takes place.

In recent times spaces are being designed to reflect a shift towards student centred learning, creating dynamic and more flexible learning environments for students.

However, designing new learning environments are not enough if measuring and evaluating are not part of the process.

After the redevelopment of the existing Engineering Library into a Student Learning Centre (SLC) at the University of Melbourne (Pictured above), Sarah Ball, Principal Architect at Woods Bagot, said the common point of feedback from students was the physical environment is an important component of the way they learn and interact.

“Students are becoming more discerning about how the physical environment relates to the university experience. It’s not just about the education and information they get — they also value highly the quality of the physical environment,” said Ball.

Balle will be presenting at IQPC’s Design for New Generation Learning Spaces taking place on the 28 - 29 March, 2012 at the Sofitel, Melbourne.

IQPC’s New Generation Learning Spaces 2012 will bring universities and architects together to examine, discuss and reflect best practice in existing projects.

Featured speakers:

  • Gregory Baxter, Pro Vice-Chancellor, VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
  • Peter Jamieson, Strategic Advisor Learning Environment Design, UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
  • Kendra Backstrom, Program Director Learning Hub, THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE
  • John Simons, Executive Dean Faculty of Arts, MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY

Key Panels and Presentations:

  • INNOVATION PANEL: Creating Different Spaces for Different Disciplines
  • TECHNOLOGY FORUM: Mistakes Made and Lessons Learnt
  • KNOWLEDGE SHARING PANEL DEBATE: Design Considerations to Create Flexible and Sustainable Learning Environments
  • COMMUNICATION PANEL: Best Practice in Engaging Academics
  • COLLABORATIVE ROUNTABLE: Who makes up the “Ideal” Project Team?

Image: Woods Bagot