With reference to this blog written for City, University of London, now more pertinent, from earlier in the year – https://blogs.city.ac.uk/learningatcity/2020/01/13/what-type-of-learning-spaces-should-we-design-for-our-students/#.XqqzXy-ZPOQ
It seems obvious to say that with the current Covid-19 crisis, higher education is facing an enormous challenge in how to respond to the situation and how to adapt to an uncertain future. One strategic approach is to think about what is important for the learning and development of our students and then decide how best to deliver that experience. Perhaps a mixed mode of delivery, with a combination of online delivery and interaction blended with on-campus activities that may one day be possible, with whatever restrictions are set in place. Universities will need to rethink how students learn, in what environment and importantly providing an equitable experience. Hopefully the days of large group teaching in tightly packed lecture theatres are over! Who knows? This pandemic is forcing a change in the sector which will hopefully lead to creative solutions that protect the health and well-being of students and staff while somehow balancing the financial imperatives of higher education.
There will more posts to discuss this soon.
