Student-centric informal learning

The University of San Francisco's new Innovation Hive, within the historic Harney Science Center, acts as an academic stage for real-time problem solving. The Hive helps students across campus test their thinking through making in an invigorating environment that models the R&D centers they will lead as professionals. The classroom space expands to incorporate a prototyping suite, a materials lab, and advanced fabrication labs, knitting these spaces together so that students can engage with their work while collaborating with faculty and, most importantly, with each other.

The first phase of a full renovation of the Harney Science Center, the 7,600-square-foot makerspace launches USF's engineering program, enabling the creation of new engineering degree programs within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). The team assessed the existing building to understand its ability to accommodate new uses and programs. The renovation honors the original structure while reinventing and right-sizing collaborative space to strengthen CAS identity and the dynamic relationship between teacher and student. Chosen materials and fixtures are compatible with a future goal of WELL certification for the entire building.

Positioned on the building's entry level, the Innovation Hive invites visitors into the space and develops a sense of community for students, staff, and faculty to work together on shared endeavors in a hands-on learning environment. Understanding that the creation of ideas is different for all, the collaboration space encourages different forms of learning, offering flexible seating options and lounges – students can choose the best space for them for any given task on any given day.