Spaces that Shape Learning

Built for Innovation, Education, and Engagement

Inside UMSI’s new classrooms, faculty find the tools and layouts to support dynamic, collaborative, and future-ready learning.

The opening of the new Leinweber Building has given UMSI more than just a new address. It has opened the door to a more dynamic, flexible, and technology-enhanced learning environment that aligns with the evolving needs of our students and teaching practices.

One of the standout features of the new building is the flexibility of its classrooms. Nearly all teaching spaces are designed with movable furniture, allowing instructors to configure rooms for small-group collaboration, traditional lectures, project-based learning, or any combination that suits their course goals. The large lecture hall, Room 1125/1240, can even be divided into two separate classrooms, making it easy to scale space based on class size and instructional style.

Technology also plays a central role. Many classrooms are equipped with multiple screens, including portable TV monitors that can display instructional content throughout a space. Instructors can choose to project their materials using traditional ceiling-mounted projectors or cast slides and visuals to screens placed more strategically around the room. This flexibility helps ensure that students can stay engaged and connected to the course content from any seat in the room.

UMSI-IT has also made it easier to integrate hands-on technology into the learning experience. Two mobile iPad carts are available to support classroom activities, offering 50 iPads in total that can be reserved as needed. These devices expand the range of digital tools available during instruction and support more interactive, student-driven engagement.

One of the most exciting additions is Room 1305, a space that provides hands-on learning within a fully equipped maker space. This lab supports coursework in areas like IoT prototyping, 3D printing and modeling, electronics, wearables, sewing, embroidery, and digital crafting. The room includes 3D printers, a Cricut Maker, a 3D scanner, and soldering tools, with all equipment stored in mobile shelving to maintain the flexibility of the classroom setup. Stephanie Brenton, UMSI Lecturer, will be using this space for her upcoming course, IoT Prototyping and Innovation, which encourages students to bring tangible ideas to life using the tools available in the lab.

While North Campus is now UMSI’s central home, our presence on Central Campus remains active. Faculty can still host office hours at the Collegian building off Maynard Street or use shared spaces in the suite above Panera at South Thayer and North University. This cross-campus access supports undergraduate learning and makes it easier for students and instructors to stay connected.