Exploring the Campus as a Living Lab: A Pathway to Innovation and Engagement
Experience USask’s innovative “Campus as a Living Lab” project, where campus becomes a dynamic space for sustainability education and hands-on learning. Join us in shaping a sustainable future!
By Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching and Learning
The concept of a “Campus as a Living Lab” is not just an academic buzzword; it’s a transformative approach that turns a non-classroom part of the university campus into a hub for experiential learning and community engagement. Dr. Allison Cammer’s invitation to explore this concept is a call to action for students, faculty, and staff to engage with the campus beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Why is ‘Campus as a Living Lab’ Important?
The ‘Campus as a Living Lab’ initiative is crucial for programs like nutrition, where real-world application and community interaction are key components of learning. By forging partnerships with various campus groups and spaces, students can apply their knowledge in practical settings, contributing to their education and the well-being of the campus community.
Small Initiatives, Big Impact
Dr. Cammer emphasizes that experiential learning projects do not need to be grandiose to be impactful. Small, well-thought-out initiatives can significantly influence students’ learning experiences and the broader community. Encouraging students to be creative, collaborate with stakeholders, and steer their projects allows for a personalized and deeply engaging educational journey.
The Campus Playground
The university campus offers a rich tapestry of programs, offerings, and opportunities just outside the office door. It serves as a playground for innovation, where students can engage with different campus agencies, such as peer health, student wellness, culinary services, and other centres. These interactions enable students to develop and implement programming that resonates with their interests and meets the community’s needs.
The ‘Campus as a Living Lab’ concept is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in higher education. It’s an invitation to view the campus not just as a place of study but as a living, breathing ecosystem ripe for exploration, learning, and growth. As Dr. Cammer suggests, let’s empower our students to engage and innovate right here, right now, making the most of the incredible resources at their fingertips.
For a deeper dive into this concept and to witness Dr. Cammer’s enthusiasm for campus engagement, watch her video on YouTube.
Other resources:
- What are living labs? | Campus as a Living Lab (UBC)
- What is a Campus Living Laboratory? (Carlton)
- What is Campus as a Learning Lab? (UCalgary)
Photo still from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iD2qXdMJ8Ko&t=22s&ab_channel=GMCTLUSask