Higher Learning

Oct 10, 2022 | Fall/Winter 2022-23, Out and About

The Teaching and Learning Complex, situated near the Silo, is the first new general classroom building on the UC Davis campus in 50 years. The TLC currently boasts three floors of classrooms, lecture halls and study spaces, while the fourth floor houses offices. “We aim to change the way we teach,” said Kem Saichaie, director of learning and teaching at the UC Davis Center for Educational Effectiveness. The $86 million building opened at the start of spring quarter. A dedication ceremony was held Oct. 4.

Photography by Karin Higgins and Gregory Urquiaga

 

 

 

A Grand Entrance

The concrete stadium stairs outside the southwest side of the building — shaded by solar panels — have tables outside for gatherings. And interior stadium stairs (pictured above) on the north side of the building have outlets and cushions so students can relax with friends and get work done while waiting for their classes to begin.

 

Classrooms

The TLC has approximately 2,000 seats and supports active learning strategies with flexible seating designed to promote engagement. Each room is equipped with lecture-capture technology and cameras that connect to Zoom.

 

Social Hub

The TLC includes multiple areas for informal gathering and collaboration complete with white boards, study spaces and post-class discussion nooks. Natural lighting enhances many of the spaces.

 

Sustainability

A canopy of photovoltaics provides shade to the outdoor stadium seating while offsetting the building’s energy use.