Supporting Team-Based Learning
University of Vermont Larner Classroom
Burlington, VT
No “Front” of the Room
The UVM College of Medicine hired D+W to modify existing space and design a highly-flexible, technology-rich classroom specifically for Team-Based Learning (TBL). This educational model consists of small groups of 6-8 students working individually, in teams, or as a class in a dynamic classroom setting. The Larner Classroom can accommodate up to 120 students with design features including a centralized plan with no “front” of the room where a traditional teacher would stand. Additional features include ten high-definition, rear-projection glass visual display surfaces; audio systems for the all-class discussion mode designed for excellent microphone pickup and speech intelligibility; and a robust technology backbone and ample power to support multiple wireless devices. The room includes tablet-driven, intuitive room controls that allow for multiple presentation modes. Users can adapt lighting, sound, and room darkening to support visual displays, various presentations, and group discussion. Furniture selections (small group tables and chairs on casters) support close group activity and maximize flexibility of room layouts.
An Immersive Experience
The Larner Classroom supports the high-definition presentation of the web-based digital microscopy collection of the College. Because the glass visual displays encircle the room, a single digital image can be stretched around the room to create an “immersive mode” and environment. The furniture can quickly be reconfigured to allow demonstrations using the College’s medical mannequins.
