This document discusses the creation of high quality learning spaces. It notes that many universities have insufficient or inappropriate learning spaces. The main interest is to find and test factors that maximize the creation of high quality, flexible, and sustainable learning spaces for students. It discusses how technology and the needs of the "Net Generation" are changing teaching and learning processes and spaces. The document concludes that the teaching and learning process will not be the same as the last 10 years and that providing appropriate spaces to teach and learn requires more than a simple space, as educational activities are organic and evolving.

1. CREATION OF HIGH QUALITY LEARNING SPACES Pedro Silva [email_address] Luís Borges Gouveia L earning S pace ED-MEDIA 2008

2. Main Objective This research project is the result of a set of experiences to understand the issues involved in the use of the virtual environments in higher education institutions. Problem of the investigation The need of a referential system to guide the higher education institutions in the performance of virtual learning environments and in its adjustment from the physical teaching spaces The main interest of the project is try to find and test a set of factors that maximize the creation of high quality learning spaces, pliable and sustainable to the future needs of the students.

4. Looking back to Look forward Old Space Many universities have insufficient or inappropriate learning spaces; they are too small, very dark or cold, made in the wrong places, etc. The s tudents dont talk, and there are encoraged to work allon. New Space The new learning space should be able to motivate learners and promote learning as an activity, support collaborative as well as formal learning.

10. Traditional learning environments

11. Social learning spaces

12. Collaborative learning environment