Teaching Laboratories

Purpose

Teaching laboratories are specialised learning environments designed to support practical, experimental and hands-on teaching activities. These spaces accommodate a range of disciplines, including science, engineering, computer studies, health sciences and other laboratory-based learning. Teaching laboratories should provide safe, flexible and technology-enabled environments that support experiential learning, skill development and academic excellence across USP campuses.

 

Design Objectives

Teaching laboratories should:

• Support practical, experimental and applied learning activities specific to the relevant discipline.

• Provide safe and functional environments that comply with applicable health, safety and regulatory requirements.

• Accommodate specialised equipment, services and teaching technologies necessary for laboratory-based instruction.

• Provide flexible layouts that support both individual and group learning activities.

• Ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all users.

• Incorporate appropriate ICT, audio-visual and data infrastructure to support teaching, research and digital learning tools.

• Provide suitable lighting, ventilation and thermal comfort for laboratory activities.

• Ensure durable, maintainable and chemical-resistant finishes where required.

• Facilitate effective supervision through clear sightlines between teaching staff and students.

• Provide adequate storage, preparation areas and support spaces appropriate to the laboratory function.

• Enable future adaptation to evolving technologies, teaching methods and discipline requirements.

• Promote sustainable design principles, including efficient use of energy, water and resources where practicable.