"Collegia"

Planning tips for encouraging collaboration.

Published July 2007 Explore strategies for using design features such as circulation corridors and computer labs to foster informal interaction.

Facilities that rate high on the Interaction Index have wide circulation corridors in which casual seating areas can be arranged, cafés with food service, and generous, open common space to eat and meet. Successful interaction spaces always involve food. “Collegia” is a new word for space where day students hang out – spaces with soft chairs, fireplaces, and wireless internet. It is a feature that works in creating an interactive science learning environment in undergraduate science buildings. When planning student computer labs, horizontal surfaces need to be large enough for books in addition to keyboards.

- From Tradeline's Science Buildings Canada 2007 Conference.