Josh Harrold, Associate Principal at BNIM, recently authored a guest article for Society of College and University Planning (SCUP) magazine, Planning for Higher Education. In his article, “Regionalism, Ecology, and Field-Based Learning Partnerships Broaden Study Opportunities,” Josh highlights BNIM’s work with Missouri State University on the MSU Ozarks Education Center (OEC). The MSU OEC is an exemplary model for immersive outdoor education, field-based learning, and architectural regionalism. The project’s design philosophy embraces the ecology of the Ozarks and the unique cultural, historical, and environmental essence of the region.

Responding to evolving needs of learning environments in the wake of the global pandemic, MSU Ozarks Education Center is centered around the creation of an outdoor- and field-based learning environment that serves as an educational outpost for the College of Natural and Applied Sciences while celebrating the human connection to place. MSU OEC redefines the paradigms of field-based learning, planning, and design methodologies. Rooted in the Ozark landscape, the facility was thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the surrounding ecology, fostering an immersive learning experience that nurtures an understanding of the delicate balance between humans and the natural environment. This project demonstrates a new era of educational spaces that seamlessly integrate with the mature, enhancing students’ academic journeys and cultivating a profound appreciation for the Ozark landscape.

SCUP members can read the full article here.