Date/Time: October 30, 2025 | 10:45 am – 12:15 pm

Room: 155-156

Audience: Architects, Engineers, Educators, Facility Personnel, Contractors / Suppliers / Manufacturers, Consultants

Call to Action:
Leave with practical strategies and a personalized framework to implement design elements for multiple generational learners. Overall generation trends will align the included framework for technological, health and well-being, inclusivity, collaboration, learning, and social interactions related to outdoor areas.

Abstract: Picture a childhood where learning unfolded outdoors—building forts, wading through creeks, and exploring with friends. For many, these experiences cultivated creativity, resilience, and a deep connection with nature. However, as education evolves, so do the ways students engage with outdoor spaces. How can we design learning environments that honor these past experiences while meeting the diverse needs of today’s and tomorrow’s learners? This session explores how different generations—from Gen X to Gen Alpha and beyond—perceive and interact with outdoor learning spaces. We will examine trends in outdoor engagement: Which generations embrace digital integration with nature? Which prioritize social interaction as their primary outdoor engagement? Which seek outdoor spaces as a retreat for mental wellness? By understanding these generational shifts, we can create outdoor spaces that are relevant, innovative, and future-focused.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze generational trends and their impact on outdoor learning spaces.
2. Apply strategies to design environments that support diverse learning styles and needs.
3. Develop an actionable concept for an outdoor space that enhances student engagement and well-being Identify high-achieving outdoor design elements for multiple generations.
4. Leave with practical strategies and a personalized framework to implement in their own educational settings.