Call to Action: This session will teach them a new design approach to looking at biology as a design driver. They will leave with specific strategies, mindset tools, and new products to incorporate into their projects.

Abstract: Education is the foundation upon which our future is built, and the spaces where learning occurs wield unparalleled influence over students' growth and development. Join me in an exploration of educational design that marries the insights of neuroarchitecture with the principles of sustainability. In this session tailored for educational designers and higher-education professionals, we will dive into the world of evidence-based design that optimizes cognitive function, creativity, and engagement. Discover how biophilic design elements can foster a connection to nature, enhancing students’ focus, reducing stress, and stimulating imagination. Explore the science of circadian lighting and its potential to regulate attention spans and enhance academic performance. Through research, case studies and best practices, we will showcase the tangible impact of sustainable materials, daylighting strategies, and healthy finishes on student well-being and achievement. Join this journey as we reimagine classrooms, libraries, and campuses as dynamic ecosystems that empower learners to thrive. This session is an opportunity to reshape education through design, ensuring that every space becomes a catalyst for intellectual and personal growth.

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the concept and benefits of neuroarchitecture and how it applies to educational design.
2. Identify and implement biophilic design elements that foster a connection to nature and enhance students’ focus, creativity, and well-being.
3. Evaluate and optimize the lighting conditions of learning environments based on the science of circadian rhythms and their impact on attention and performance.
4. Recognize and apply best practices of sustainable design that use natural and healthy materials, maximize daylighting, and improve indoor air quality and thermal comfort.