For those interested in assessment of learning spaces, you will want to download version 1 of the newly released Learning Space Rating System (LSRS) available on the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) website at http://www.educause.edu/eli/initiatives/learning-space-rating-system

From the Introduction:
"The Learning Space Rating System (LSRS) project provides a set of measurable criteria to assess how well the design of classrooms support and enable active learning activities. Noting the success of several architectural programs to promote sustainable building design, the LSRS provides a scoring system to serve as an indicator of how well a classroom’s design serves the goal of active learning. The LSRS criteria form the basis for a rating system that will allow institutions to benchmark their environments against best practices within the higher education community."

While this version focused on formal learning spaces, primarily classrooms, future versions will informal spaces (such as library and computer center spaces) and specialized spaces.

--Joan Lippincott
CNI