EdUp Smart Space

In this episode, Craig Park and Elliot Felix explore strategies for enhancing student experiences, the importance of design in creating connected colleges, and the role of technology in supporting student success.

Elliot shares insights from his extensive work with over 100 colleges and universities, emphasizing the need for collaboration, equity, and innovative design in higher education.

The conversation also touches on the future of campus planning, hybrid learning spaces, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among students.

For more information, visit www.burohappold.com or www.elliotfelix.com

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of learning spaces, the importance of active learning, and how technology can enhance educational experiences.

Dr. Lisa Stevens shares insights on collaboration among educators, the need for equity and accessibility, and the impact of demographic changes on higher education.

The conversation explores the integration of FlexSpace with long-term planning and emerging trends in immersive learning environments.

#EdUp #EdUp Smart Space #FutureofCampusTechnology

In this episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, host CraigPark and Dr. Chris Morett, a campus planning strategist and founder of Co|Here, discuss Chris's unexpected journey into campus planning, the influence of sociology on his approach, and the vision behind his consulting practice.

Chris emphasizes the importance of understandingorganizational behavior and the role of space in driving change. He also addresses the challenges higher education institutions face in long-range planning and the need for dynamic, responsive planning models.

Their conversation highlights the significance of storytellingin the planning process, advocating for a more inclusive and effective approach to campus design. They also emphasize the importance of integrated approaches in planning and the need for collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Looking toward the future, Morett reflects on the evolvinglandscape of educational and workplace environments, the skills and mindsets required for planners, and the necessity of continuous learning.

For more information, visit Co|Here.

In this episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, Abbey the AI and Craig Park switch seats to discuss the intersection of human factors analysis and technology in creating innovative campus environments.

They explore the evolution of design principles, the definition of smart spaces, the role of AI, and the importance of personalized adaptability.

The conversation also addresses challenges in implementation, the need for equity, and ethical considerations surrounding data usage.

Finally, they envision the future of smart campuses and provide practical implementation strategies for institutions.

Here's a link to Craig's article, From Ergonomics to Experience.

In this episode, Craig Park and Heather Keele discuss the intersection of architecture, technology, and sustainability in academic facilities. Heather shares her journey in people-centric design and the importance of creating spaces that foster innovation and well-being.

They explore the roles of WELL and LEED standards in promoting wellness and sustainability, the integration of technology in building design, and the need for flexibility in educational environments.

The discussion also highlights the significance of equity and inclusion in design, the impact of smart infrastructure, and the future trends in academic building design.

For more information, visit Clark & Enersen on the web.

In this episode, Heather Morgan, an expert in higher education planning, shares her thoughts on the intersection of technology, design, and student success.

Heather and Craig explore how to translate strategic goals into actionable physical plans, the importance of inclusive design, and the future of learning environments.

Heather emphasizes the need for institutions to adapt to changing student needs and the role of technology in enhancing learning experiences.

The conversation also touches on the importance of stakeholder engagement and the evolving landscape of higher education.

In this episode, we explore the critical importance of the intersection of human experience design and technology in educational environments.

We discuss how buildings can serve as extensions of human capabilities, the importance of adapting learning spaces for digital natives, and the need for holistic technology integration in campus design.

Our conversation also touches on sustainability, the risks of siloed planning, and the potential impact of emerging technologies like AR on education.

Key takeaways include:

• Experience design is about solving user problems, not just technology.
• Buildings should be seen as extensions of human capabilities.
• Different learning environments foster different types of thinking.

You can read Paul Chavez' insightful article "A Design Framework for Digital Buildings," here.

In this special edition episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, host Craig Park and AI co-host Abby explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on academic facilities.

They discuss how AI enhances space utilization, integrates various systems for smarter learning environments, and predicts future needs.

The conversation also covers the importance of equity and access, ethical considerations in AI implementation, advancements in classroom AV technologies, user interface innovations, and the shift toward wireless collaboration.

The episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the future of learning environments as adaptive, responsive spaces that enhance the educational experience.

If you’ve ever wondered how top-tier universities create tech-enabled classrooms that actually improve learning outcomes, you won’t want to miss this conversation with Don Merritt, PhD, Director of Instructional Resources at the University of Central Florida.

From standardization to immersive learning environments, Don shares how UCF turns bold ideas into scalable, sustainable solutions.

We talk about real-world strategies for planning smarter, supporting faculty, and designing future-ready spaces that meet the evolving expectations of today’s students. Plus, hear how UCF’s “Sandbox” approach helps avoid costly tech missteps—and why AI, AV-over-IP, and massive dvLED displays are reshaping the classroom experience. Whether you’re a campus planner, AV integrator, or tech-savvy educator, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can use now—and a vision for what’s comes after what comes next.

Listen now and join the conversation about the future of education at the EdUp Experience.

Bonus: You can read more about Don's insights on planning here!

#EdUp #EdUpSmartSpace #FutureofLearning #EducationTechnology

What happens when a 20-year classroom veteran brings her passion for learning to the front lines of education innovation?

In Episode 2 of EdUp Smart Space, I talk with Kate Portenier, Executive Director of the Foundation for Adams Central Public Schools, about what it takes to engage the next generation of learners.

From interactive classrooms and AR dissection labs to football stadium displays run by students—Kate shares how rural schools are redefining tech-forward education.

Tune in as we explore:

• The shift from “sage on the stage” to “guide on the side”
• The role of AI, AR/VR, and gamification in learning

#EdUp #EdUpSmartSpace #FutureOfLearning #EducationTechnology