VALA Events 2014: Learning to Connect – Connecting to Learn

The Gelatine project and future directions for the design of connected learning environments

This webinar presents a research project focused at the development and evaluation of design strategies for smart space technology that enhance connected learning and networking opportunities for users in public libraries and coworking spaces.

Please note: this event will be conducted as a webinar via the Redback Conferencing service.

Mark Bilandzic

Date: Tuesday, 26th August, 2014
Time: 3pm – 4pm AEST

View the webinarVALA members can watch the webinar on vimeo

Based on a social and a technical design intervention deployed at The Edge at the State Library of Queensland, the research findings illustrate the potential of combining social, spatial and digital affordances in order to nourish peer-to-peer learning, creativity, inspiration, and innovation. The study proposes a hybrid notion of placemaking as a new way of thinking about the design of interactive and connected learning environments.

Speaker: Mark Bilandzic

Dr Mark Bilandzic has a Media Computer Science and Technology Management background, and specialised in User Experience (UX) and Design Research.

He studied at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Technische Universität München, and University of California Berkeley, and completed a PhD at the Urban Informatics Research Lab at Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane. He has worked on digital product development projects in academic, freelance and organisational settings, e.g. at Siemens/Croatia, Infosys Technologies/India, Computershare/Germany and State Library of Queensland/Australia.

Mark’s research is situated in the intersection of people (social sciences), place (human geography) and technology (computer science). His work focuses on user-centred research and methodologies to inform the design and development of innovative digital products that augment social interactions and experiences in the physical world. His PhD thesis, in particular, presents a new approach and prototype system to enhance connected learning among users in public libraries and collaboration spaces.

Mark’s research has been published in conference proceedings, journals and book chapters across various disciplines, incl. human-computer interaction, community informatics, library studies, learning environments and technology management. Find a full list of publications here.

Due to limited numbers , registration for this event is by invitation. Details have been emailed to VALA Members.  Please book early to avoid missing out!