Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment for Post Secondary Design Education - Synergized design learning in a co designed space.

Successful studios combine stimulation, inspiration, and promote the learner to discover self- direction. In addition to the appearance of the space, amenities and appropriate technology are vital for students to experience design challenges and opportunities as they would in a design office. The physical requirements, spatial layout and flexibility are necessary to sustain the learning and teaching methods of collaboration and brainstorming between students and facilitators (OMP/P Architects, VS furniture & Bruce Mau Design, 2010). A well designed studio space enhances the learner’s educational experience. This research will support how learning environments specific to studio experiences impact student and engagement thus influencing their success and lifelong learning. In addition, this research provides the fundamental needs of what lifelong learners require in their studio spaces. Methodological triangulation substantiated the evidence for Participatory Action Research which was conducted in three Parts: Survey, Charrettes, and a Creative Workshop. Students and faculty were asked to co-create a solution with the researcher / author. This MRP is a collection of their ideations, solutions and needs. Together this established the knowledge to empower and emancipate multiple voices to validate a vision of change, direction, the variety of expertise, experiences, perceptions, ideas and allowed diverse groups to create synergy, and understand different ideas and contributes to the space between. The conclusions discuss and show how a learning environment becomes flexible and adaptable but it also shows how is can focus on the individual