Designing and evaluating learning spaces: PaSsPorT and design-based research

Abstract

This chapter discusses the purposes, design and implementation of a physical experimental learning and teaching space which forms part of the University of Southern Queensland’s Australian Digital Futures Institute (ADFI). It identifies challenges associated with the initial design and offers some recommendations for addressing these challenges. The concept and principles of the PaSsPorT design model which has been developed to guide the redesign of the space are introduced, and a brief description of another ADFI space, the software research and development laboratory follows. The paper also introduces a process for evaluating the design and implementation of learning, teaching, and research spaces using design-based research to frame the model.