The Influence of Space Layout, Technology and Teaching Approach on Student Learning: An Architectural Technology Perspective

Some would argue that there is a need for the traditional lecture format to be rethought in favour of a more active approach. However, this must form part of a bipartite strategy, considered in conjunction with the layout of any new space to facilitate alternative learning and teaching methods. With this in mind, this paper begins to examine the impact of the learning environment on the student learning experience, specifically focusing on students studying on the Architectural Technology and Management programme at Ulster University. The aim of this study is two-fold: to increase understanding of the impact of learning space layout, by taking a student centered approach; and to gain an appreciation of how technology can impact upon the learning space. The study forms part of a wider project being undertaken at Ulster University known as the Learning Landscape Transition Project, exploring the relationship between learning, teaching and space layout. Data collection was both qualitative and quantitative, with use of a case study supported by a questionnaire based on attitudinal scaling. A focus group was also used to further analyse the key trends resulting from the questionnaire. The initial results suggest that the learning environment, and the technology within it, can not only play an important part in the overall learning experience of the student, but also assist with preparation for the working environment to be experienced in professional life.

Anchorage Library Competition, Anchorage, Alaska, 1981 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue ink sketch on tracing paper, signed, 12 x 26 1/2 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Anchorage Library Competition, Anchorage, Alaska, 1981 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue, green and brown ink sketch on tracing paper, 18x34 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

ParkCenter, Houston, Texas, 1983 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Ink sketch on tracing paper, 12x23 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Weinstein Residence, San Francisco, California, 1986 (unbuilt project)

[Early Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue ink sketch with marker coloring on tracing paper, 12 x 21 1/2 iinches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Weinstein Residence, San Francisco, California, 1986 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue ink sketch with yellow marker coloring on tracing paper, 12 x 24 1/2 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Weinstein Residence, San Francisco, California, 1986 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue ink sketch with blue marker coloring on tracing paper, 12 x 19 1/2 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Ink sketch on tracing paper, 18 x 17 1/2 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch], untitled. Blue ink sketch on tracing paper, 23x12 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch of Roof], untitled. Blue ink sketch on tracing paper, 22x12 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Schematic Design Drawing of Elevation], untitled. Colored ink and pencil drawing on black-line print, drawn on train between "Basil and Firenze," initialed, 8 1/2 x 11 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Concept Study of Facade], untitled. Electrostatic print with pencil coloring, 24x18 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Schematic Design Drawing of Elevation], untitled. Black and brown ink drawing on black-line print, 22 1/2 x 10 1/4 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Schematic Design Drawing of Elevation Perspective], untitled. Colored crayon drawing on blue-line print, 27 1/4 x 19 1/4 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]

Domino's Farms Tower, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1987-1988 (unbuilt project)

[Conceptual Sketch of Roof], untitled. Ink sketch with yellow marker coloring on tracing paper, 12 x 16 1/4 inches [from photographic copy by Lance Burgharrdt]