“Classroom without walls”: Van teaching machines tot machine learning

From teaching machines to machine learning

Abstract

The intersection of learning, space, and technology has become a significant focus in recent years. The design of educational environments for the future has emerged as a critical concern within campus architecture. These new university buildings often bear concise brand names that are abbreviated keywords, such as ‘collaboration’, ‘creativity’, or ‘flexibility’. Notable examples include UN Studio’s ‘Echo’ and ‘Pulse’ by ector hoogstad architecten, designed as new and innovative learning centres for the TU Delft campus. Despite their different architectural qualities, these projects share a common conceptual thread—integrating space and technology to create immersive learning experiences. In light of the rise of artificial intelligence, it is essential to consider how learning spaces can be adapted to this new era. Moreover, in a data-driven society, it becomes critical to question the nature of learning itself. The origins of these inquiries can be traced back to the mid-20th century’s experimental era of cybernetics, where the convergence of human and machine learning left an unforgettable mark on architectural history.