Hoverboards between classes? Holographic lecturers? What do you think of when you imagine a university campus in 2050 or 2100?
The sector is going through an unprecedented period of expansion following the removal of the caps on student numbers. Some 532,300 students, a record figure, entered higher education last year. As well as wanting to stand out from the crowd, universities are under the same pressures as other large organisations to be environmentally friendly and to adapt to new ways of working.
Our series on the architecture of universities has explored these topics, as well as looking at why walking through a glass atrium is beneficial to scientists and how to make corridors more community-friendly.
We’ve gathered experts from architecture and academia to discuss the trends in university design and working practices that could shape the landscape of higher education institutions in the decades to come – join us for the discussion on Thursday 28 January from 12-2pm GMT.
Send us your questions by posting in the comments below or tweeting us via @GdnHigherEd. The comments section is open now (although your questions won’t be answered until the live chat).
We will be discussing
- What innovations in university design will best advance the learning experience?
- How can universities expand without damaging the environment?
- Do academic buildings need to be inspirational and functional?
The panel
John Bailey, Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges
Claus-Christian Eckhardt, professor in the school of industrial design at Lund University, Sweden
Joanna Eley, architect at design consultant at Alexi Marmot Associates, and built- environment expert at Design Council Cabe
Gail Kinman, professor of occupational health psychology at the University of Bedfordshire
Satwinder Samra, senior university teacher in the school of architecture at the University of Sheffield
Ian Taylor, managing partner of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
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