The Design of a Field School: Learning Environments with/in a Living Lab

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 1:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Contemporary Discussions in Learning Environments 1

Abstract

In this research, we used learning environment theories as they applied to the design / evaluation of the learning environment of an international field school. At the outset, ideas about the physical campus environment informed extensive campus renovations occurring prior to commencement of the field school. Further, students learning preferences were gaged prior to the start of instruction at the new research centre. Two specific instruments: SPACES and PLACES were used in both of the design and evaluation processes and these were corroborated by interviews / focus groups before, during and after the program. Our assessments demonstrate that purposeful design of learning sites and field school activities create a robust / positive environment which substantially augmented learning outcomes for students.

Author

• David B. Zandvliet, Simon Fraser University