Aligning physical learning spaces with the curriculum: AMEE Guide No. 107.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Educational Technology
• Architecture and Design

Background:

• Medical education is evolving due to technological advancements and new teaching methodologies.
• Existing physical learning spaces require re-evaluation to align with the changing curriculum.
• There's a need for established processes and tools to guide the design and programming of new learning spaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore emerging issues in aligning learning spaces with the evolving medical education curriculum.
• To provide a framework for faculty and the medical education community to lead the design of learning environments.
• To introduce the concept of a networked learning landscape for assessing and optimizing space-curriculum alignment.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual framework development for aligning curriculum and learning spaces.
• Introduction of the 'networked learning landscape' model.
• Exploration of learning spaces across four scales: classroom, building, campus, and city.

Main Results:

• The networked learning landscape model helps assess how technology influences learning spaces and styles.
• Guidance is provided for briefing processes considering broader scales and technological impact.
• Involvement of academic stakeholders is key for strategic design aligned with curriculum demands.

Conclusions:

• Effective alignment requires engaged leadership and better tools for faculty.
• The networked learning landscape offers a novel approach to evaluating and designing medical education environments.
• Strategic stakeholder involvement is essential for creating learning environments that meet future curriculum needs.