Instructors teaching in several general assignment classrooms kicked off fall quarter with new in-room microphones and display monitors, modular desks and tables for customizable room layouts, as well as improved acoustics and lighting. These new audio-visual technology and accessibility features were some of the upgrades made since the last time instructors taught in the rooms during spring quarter.
“I popped into [my classroom] yesterday to do a test run and I didn’t recognize the room,” noted Jennifer A. Sumner, Associate Professor of Psychology teaching in one of the upgraded classrooms this fall. “I’m very excited to use these new resources this quarter.”
Over the summer, four classrooms in Kaplan Hall and two in the Physics and Astronomy Building received significant upgrades through the General Assignment Classroom Modernization Pilot Project, a $4.3 million investment done in collaboration between the UCLA Teaching and Learning Center (TLC), Digital & Technology Solutions (DTS), and Facilities Management (FM). The new classroom designs drew on input from UCLA instructors to deliver a cutting-edge learning environment.
“We understand that our educational innovation efforts are dependent on having modern teaching infrastructure,” said Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning Erin Sanders O’Leary. “This means that we need upgraded spaces, equipped with technology, that can support the type of learning innovations our instructors want to pursue.”
“This pilot represents far more than a technology refresh; it’s a reflection of UCLA’s commitment to reimagining what learning can be,” added Joe Way, Executive Director of Digital Spaces at DTS.
Improvements made to the selected classrooms include AV technology upgrades to support flexible class modalities, including in-person and hybrid class sessions, as well as lecture capture and more accessibility support systems. Facilities enhancements include movable furniture that supports various teaching practices, along with improved lighting, sightlines, acoustics, and energy-efficient equipment.
The six classrooms that received upgrades as part of the Classroom Modernization Pilot include:
- Kaplan A26
- Kaplan A40
- Kaplan A48
- Kaplan A65
- Physics and Astronomy Building (PAB) 1749
- PAB 2434
Two additional classrooms received upgrades during the summer — Franz 1178 had a new AV technology system installed, while Boelter Hall 2760 was fully renovated to expand its seating capacity from 72 to over 100 seats.
These upgraded classrooms create dynamic new spaces where all students can learn.
“Our goal is to create classrooms that are accessible, sustainable, and scalable, spaces that adapt to the needs of every instructor and every student. Guided by our vision of ‘everything, everywhere, for everyone,’ we’re building a foundational platform that ensures teaching and learning can thrive across modalities and disciplines,” Way said. “When we invest in our spaces, we’re investing in the people and possibilities that define UCLA for years to come.”
The renovated classrooms, included in the pilot, are used by more than 10,000 students and over 280 instructors throughout the academic year, making it vital that these spaces support effective instruction. The Classroom Modernization Pilot Project demonstrates that educational innovation and the ability to elevate learning for all students on campus requires an ongoing investment in space and infrastructure. The partnership between units across campus underscores the key role collaboration plays in maintaining learning spaces.
“I am very excited about the renewed investment the campus made this year on classroom improvements, and hope they continue amidst all our fiscal challenges,” noted Kelly Schmader, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Facilities Management (FM). “These are among our favorite projects in FM because, unlike behind-the-walls mechanical, electrical and plumbing projects — which are important — the classroom improvements are visible and impact the teaching and learning experience every day and truly showcase our contributions to our students and faculty.”
Through this collaboration, the TLC, DTS, and FM hope to highlight how critical advances in educational innovation remain a priority at UCLA. Improving classroom technology and infrastructure in order to elevate excellent teaching for all students is outlined in the UCLA for Life flagship initiative, a part of Chancellor Julio Frenk’s One UCLA campaign, and outlined as Goal 4 of the University’s Strategic Plan.
“We look forward to continuing to engage with our campus community to elevate teaching by modernizing our classrooms, supporting our instructors, and serving all our students,” noted O’Leary.
