Creative Learning Environment: A Collaborative Study Defining the Characteristics and the Adaptable Prototype

In teaching-oriented academic institutions, the focus is often mainly on teaching requirements rather than research components. Frequently, faculty have limited time to engage in research activities, and one of the strategies is to integrate empirical research into the teaching component. The purpose of this two-fold qualitative study was to generate creative learning environment characteristics and an adaptable prototype while engaging students in undergraduate research. The study took place at CIDA accredited interior design department, at American University in Dubai in the United Arabs Emirates. Two sections of twenty-two undergraduate Interior Design students in junior level studio voluntarily participated in the study led by two course instructors. The first step was to introduce the project and its relevance, and to provide background knowledge. Herman Miller Research Center contributed with contents and resources. Students participated in a variety of data gathering. Based on the analysis of the data, spatial layouts were elaborated, facilitating the faculty’s definition of creative learning environment characteristics and adaptable prototypes, shaped as regular modular forms allowing further module addition as the learning identity and its needs grow. As a creative learning environment needs to accommodate a variety of learners and adapt to different learning topologies (Hoy, 2013), three major characteristics were identified: flexibility; comfort and wellbeing; and technology. Students were exposed to an advanced level of research study that has provided preparation for a senior thesis project, while fulfilling program learning objectives. welcomes and encourages members’ inputs in a spirit of collaboration and advancement. The Learning space, both physical and digital, provides various and dynamic forms of learning through flexibility, personalization of experience and adaptability, nurturing learners' well-being and fostering a lifelong learning mindset. It responds to learning and needs with transformation and modification. Exploration of new and innovative learning opportunities is supported, helping to grow the overall learning experience.