Guidelines for Learning Spaces

Introduction

The design of any learning space is a collaborative effort between architects, facilities managers, engineers, IT specialists, university administrators and–perhaps most importantly–students and faculty. Primary consideration should be for the immediate and long-term purposes of the space and the needs of the users. Therefore, because the purpose of a space and the needs of learners vary, designs should be flexible (Chism & Bickford, 2002; Oblinger, 2004).  Classroom and building design should also be mindful of the fact that learning is not restricted to the bounds of a classroom, studio or lab, but may arise in any physical or virtual space.

The links below give guidelines for the common issues that apply to all learning spaces as well as the specific issues that apply to particular learning spaces.

• Common Classroom Design Elements

Particular spaces:

• Large Lecture Hall
• Large Classroom
• Seminar Room
• Science Laboratory
• Computer Classroom
• Studio Design
• Informal Learning Spaces

Bibliography (.pdf)

CRLT Consultation Services for Learning Space Design

CRLT instructional consultants can help departments or units with learning space design. To request a consultation, call 764-0505 or email crlt@umich.edu.

CRLT • University of Michigan • 1071 Palmer Commons • 100 Washtenaw Ave. • Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2218
Phone: (734) 764-0505  •  Fax: (734) 647-3600  •  Email: crlt@umich.edu
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