Green roof installation as a living lab for outdoor learning in higher education

Abstract

Technology and construction knowledge are harder to understand among higher education students if the teaching and learning process is only conducted inside the classroom. Learning should be versatile, and the subject will be more interested in experiencing the students with materials and processes outside the classroom. It also boosts site awareness, especially when the students must collaborate on the design and construction technology for the site. Thus, a living lab approach was introduced to prepare students with sound designer and construction technical knowledge. The research aims to expose students and the community to extensive green roof installation as part of teaching and learning activities. The green roof subject was selected as it was an example of engaging design students with current technology. The participation from various student backgrounds are from Master of Science in Green Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Building Surveying, Diploma in Landscape Architecture and other communities from the nearby campus. The results show the materials and process of building an extensive green roof on campus and significant to the design and build consultant/contractor, academicians, students, and nearby community to understand the process involved in site. The discussion part elaborated on the issues of green roofs, such as managing green roofs and biodiversity.