The Future Classroom: A case study in designing for the emerging academic landscape

Kevin Henry, Columbia College of Design;
Kristian Venalainen, Finlandia University

This presentation focuses on one large aspect of the Global Design Solutions Network (GDSN) grant sponsored by the NCIIA with Columbia College Chicago and Finlandia University. This project, initiated in conjunction with Bretford (Chicago manufacturer of office and classroom furniture), looked at two issues: the changing classroom and the changing methods of design in a global environment. By working with the issue of emerging technology in the classroom and its effects on the teacher/student relationship, and attempting to do it through the filter of technology (website, file sharing, video conferencing, etc.), the issues of working collaboratively came into sharp focus. This presentation looks at the challenges as well as the opportunities and highlights everything from the technology to the actual prototypes of new classroom furniture.

>>Read the peer-reviewed paper here (PDF)

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