Introduction

Presents an overview of the goals of this webtext. More

History

Tells the history of the Noel Studio for Academic Creativity. More

Spaces

Shows how the space is being used by faculty and students. More

Flexibility

Discusses the importance of furniture and technology. More

Students

Offers video interviews of people who use the Noel Studio. More

Conclusion

Summarizes the main arguments made in this webtext. More

Conclusion

Employing student interviews and hourly observations as our primary method for understanding the role space plays in the composing process of college students, we suggest that space facilitates a process of play that can serve important functions as students design composition projects. Through these video narratives, we explain how the Noel Studio’s space enables creative expression and how that experience translates into stronger composition products. Through this experiment, students have helped us visualize the “journey of composition” as they might move from project to project, space to space, from one form of low- and high-tech resource to another, as they brainstorm, write, revise, seek feedback, revise, and polish their communication projects.  

Through this visualization of composition, we suggest that space can facilitate play—a divergent process where students are free to experiment and engage ideas that only exist as glimmers in other campus spaces. The Noel Studio encourages expression as part of the composition process and understands that students can find their voice or passion in spaces that allow them to explore on their own terms.  

Play serves an important pedagogical purpose, especially when students are learning to compose through new or unfamiliar modes and media. Establishing a low-pressure, safe environment where students feel comfortable trying new approaches, learning from and with others, and responding to the compositions of other students sends a message that making mistakes is acceptable. Incorporating creative play as part of the Noel Studio’s pedagogy suggests that compositions involve a recursive process and one that is open to experimentation at all levels and stages. A space that facilitates play immerses students within this creative experience.

the Noel Studio's Greenhouse

References

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