LEI Leads Development On Future Learning Spaces
19 October 2012
The design of a classroom, the choice of furniture and technology are key elements where we can influence student satisfaction and achievement.
”Simon Birkett, Technology Enhanced Learning Manager
The development of innovative learning spaces across the University is being led by the Learning Enhancement and Innovation (LEI) team, working in partnership with IT Services (ITS) and Estates.
Learning spaces that have already been completed through this initiative - such as the B226 room in B Block, the Kirtley Building and a collaborative classroom at the Buxton Campus - have led to high levels of satisfaction from students and staff alike, and evaluations have informed further developments and academic practice.
Simon Birkett, Technology Enhanced Learning Manager, said: "The design of a classroom, the choice of furniture and the technology are key elements where we can influence student satisfaction and achievement."
As part of the development process LEI liaises with academic staff to establish their needs, which then informs the design of learning spaces.
This approach has recently seen the successful delivery of the Britannia Mill site project, where major improvements have been made to both teaching spaces and the library.
Informal learning has been catered for at Markeaton Street. The site has seen the introduction of contemporary furniture and cutting-edge learning pods, equipped with audio-visual equipment for informal learning or for relaxing between lectures.
Dr Ruth Ayres, Dean of LEI, said: "Our key driver is to provide students with state of the art, high quality learning spaces that fulfil their learning needs."
For more information about LEI and its work see website www.derby.ac.uk/lei
