Virtual learning space or new cathedral: the impact of technology adoption on space utilisation

The management of space in UK higher education has become a critical issue given the cost of maintaining the estate and the importance of attractive campus buildings in student recruitment. Making alterations to existing building structures is expensive and disruptive. Technological developments are one of the many causal factors for change in the organisation and use of space. This paper explores the impact that technology adoption has had on space utilisation in universities. Using case studies, together with vignettes from the author’s personal experience, the impact that technology has had on space organisation is tracked. Most universities need to adopt new technologies and adapt their buildings to those already available rather than attempt to predict future technologies. There is little to suggest an emergent technology on the horizon that will have a major impact on space usage though one can never rule out the sudden emergence of a disruptive technology.