Learn for Life: New Architecture for New Learning

How well we learn is directly linked to where we learn. In our digital age, an enormous amount of information is easily accessible. Against this background and because lecture-style teaching is no longer popular, knowledge is inevitably passed on differently now than in previous times. Today, the spaces in which we learn in various phases and situations throughout our lives have to look differently than those in the past in order to meet our current educational needs. New spaces promote learning by inspiring us, providing us with helpful tools, and facilitating opportunities for productive cooperation and the exchange of ideas within groups. Learn for Life is a diverse collection of inspiring architecture and spaces that support progressive and collaborative models of acquiring knowledge. In addition to new interpretations of traditional places for learning including kindergartens, schools, universities, libraries, and educational centers, the book also features commercial buildings whose architectural innovation is redefining our understanding of what it means to develop professionally in offices, corporate headquarters, conference rooms, convention centers, and laboratories. Also included are more experimental projects such as flexible, informal, and temporary installations and exhibits that offer further perspectives on the rapidly evolving topic of how best to learn in the new millennium. The examples presented in Learn for Life also show how color, light, and the organization of space as well as playful elements and surprises can be used to support learning. In short, the work presented in this book makes clear that the creative use of architecture and interior design not only provides a new physical framework for acquiring knowledge, but also revitalizes and advances the process of learning as a whole. For exclusive previews inside and excerpts from this book, go to www.gestalten.com.