A Paradigm Discussion for the Future of Digital Learning Environments

In this project, I want to discuss the form of educational environment in the recent future. The form means the transformation of the paradigm of learning space. Especially, the space in STEAM disciplines. I want to develop the method of transforming learning materials both in the physical and digital learning environment. Physical reality limits the form of information delivery. Designers could let emerging media tech intervene in the human sense to enhance the impression of learning materials and the method which expresses experience or knowledge to others.

Even though people have already gotten the result of the 4th industrial revolution such as computational devices, artificial intelligence, 3D printers etc. But the nature and experience in the learning process might still be the same. For example, even though teachers and students could process removable lessons, the core way is still teacher talking and students listening. Maybe in the general situation, this traditional method could satisfy the basic demands. But the trend of future higher education is to face the challenge of the post-epidemic situation and interdisciplinary integration.

During the period of the ADR module stage 1, I have already finished the framework of a theory which is the guideline for building a learning environment based on Kolb’s learning theory and mixed media technology. And in stage 2, I finished the concept draft of replanning the AHSS library. I name it Omni-hybrid Learning Hub. So, in the final stage, which is the design thesis, I will try to create a virtual space to co-operate with the draft concept Omni-hybrid Learning Hub. Also creating a testing demo in Unreal Engine is an efficient method to get feedback from users and help me to evaluate the design proposal.

Design research is a process of creation and construction. In my design research project, the part of building a theoretical framework is the most important part. It relates with the purpose of university and learning theory to guide the direction of design.