EdUp Smart Space

In this episode, Craig Park and Dave Broz, Assistant Professor at Columbia College Chicago, continue their exploration of the evolution of technology-enabled learning environments. Their focus in this second part of the program is on personalized learning, equity for hybrid learners, and the challenges of multi-modal technology for faculty and students. For more information about Dave Broz, see hi...

In this engaging conversation, Craig Park and Dave Broz, Assistant Professor at Columbia College in Chicago, explore the intersection of campus technology and architectural design, emphasizing the importance of creating educational environments that foster human connection and learning. Broz shares his journey into architecture, the impact of design on learning spaces, and the significance of biop...

In this end-of-the-year episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig reviews the significant themes and trends in campus technology for 2025, focusing on artificial intelligence, integrated planning, and human-centered design. Craig also forecasts key technology trends for 2026, emphasizing AI as a utility, the evolution of teaching spaces, and the convergence of technology roles within educational institut...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park and AI co-host Abby discuss the critical role of human involvement in implementing AI in higher education. They explore the concept of 'human in the loop' as foundational for responsible AI use, emphasizing the need for human oversight in AI systems to ensure they understand context, culture, and the complexities of campus life. The conversat...

In this conversation, Josh Goldberg, Head of Technical Sales at Mason Technologies in New York City, talks about the role of the technology system integrator in helping educational institutions achieve their goals for user-friendly learning environments. Josh emphasizes the critical importance of user experience in education, advocating for technology's enhanced role in teaching. He discusses...

This episode explores the integration of AI into facilities management within educational institutions. It discusses the historical evolution of AI, current challenges faced by education facilities, and outlines seven pillars for the safe adoption of AI, drawn from my presentation at the Fall Virtual Conference of Healthy Green Schools & Colleges. The program also highlights practical applicat...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park interviews Michael Frank, Director of North American Partners at Visionoary Solutions, a seasoned leader in the AV industry, and a retired Lieutenant Commander in the US Coast Guard Reserve. They discuss the intersection of leadership, technology, and education, exploring how Michael's military background has shaped his leadership style, the evol...

In this conversation, Dr. Samuel Wathen shares his extensive experience in higher education, discussing the evolution of technology in the classroom, the impact of the pandemic on teaching methods, and the future of educational technology, including the role of AI. He emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, active learning, and maintaining a personal touch in education. #EdUp Smart Space #EdU...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park and JW Woodard, Consultant Liaison at Harman Pro, discuss the critical role of AV infrastructure design in educational facilities. They explore JW's journey in the AV industry, the challenges faced in AV planning, and the importance of treating AV as an infrastructure asset. The conversation highlights the need for early AV involvement in design proc...

In this episode, Craig discusses the intersection of education, technology, and the built environment, focusing on the challenges and opportunities in campus technology planning. based on his presentation at the Educational Technology Collaborative 2025 Conference in Raleigh, NC. He emphasizes the importance of early collaboration between technology leaders and design teams to create effective lea...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on campus infrastructure and management. He outlines the challenges faced by educational institutions, including declining enrollments and budget constraints, and emphasizes the need for intelligent systems to enhance operational efficiency. Park presents a roadmap for integrating AI into...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park interviews Heather Bemis , founder and CEO of Swap Integration . They discuss the evolving landscape of campus planning, the importance of collaborative project management , and how technology, particularly AI, is shaping the future of design and construction. Heather shares her journey from architect to entrepreneur, the challenges of planning diffe...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park and Gina Sansivero of AtlasIED discuss the critical role of audio infrastructure in higher education. They explore how audio quality impacts student success, inclusivity for diverse learners, and the importance of integrating audio systems with other technologies. The conversation also covers practical steps for implementing effective audio solutions...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space: The Future of Campus Technology , Craig Park welcomes Nick Cawthon , founder of Guage and longtime educator in data visualization and design strategy. Nick shares insights from his journey through design, cognition, and architecture programs, and how his career at the intersection of digital design, user experience, and AI informs the way we shape learning envi...

In this episode of Ed Up Smart Space, host Craig Park engages with Rhea Kelly, editor in chief of Campus Technology, to explore the evolving landscape of educational technology. They discuss Rhea's journey in the EdTech field, the significant shifts in technology and pedagogy, and the transformative role of AI in education. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on learning spaces, the...

In this episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, I discuss the critical importance of effective technology planning in higher education facilities. He identifies common challenges such as siloed teams, stakeholder disconnect, and the pitfalls of future-proofing. I then present solutions through an integrated planning approach, emphasizing collaboration among all stakeholders. He outlines the expec...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park and Joel Lewitz, PE, discuss the critical role of acoustics in educational environments, particularly how AI is transforming these spaces. They explore the evolution of acoustics technology , the challenges of active learning classrooms, and the integration of AI to create smart acoustic environments. The conversation includes practical advice for im...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space , Craig Park is joined by Dr. Amy Lomellini, Director of Accessibility at Anthology, for a powerful conversation on building a culture of inclusion in higher education. Together, they unpack why accessibility is more than compliance, how inclusive design benefits every learner, and where institutions often stumble in supporting faculty and students. They also ex...

This episode delves into the evolving landscape of education in the AGI era, focusing on the practical realities of assessment, academic integrity, career preparation, and the impact of AI on campus life. Craig and Abby, the voice of AI, highlight the need for reimagining traditional grading systems, fostering student self-assessment, and adapting to new forms of social interaction and relationshi...

In the first of a 2-part episode of EdUp Smart Space, Craig Park and AI co-host Abby explore the profound implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI) on the student experience . They discuss the fundamental shifts in education, the new literacies required for students, and the evolving concepts of identity and authenticity in the AGI era. The conversation highlights the dual nature of st...

In this episode of EdUp Smart Space, we explore the transformative journey of faculty in the era of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). As AGI reshapes the academic landscape, faculty are at a crossroads, evolving from traditional roles to becoming cognitive architects, context weavers, and ethical guides. Join host Craig Park and AI thought partner Abby as they explore the seismic shifts in ed...

In this episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, host Craig Park and AI expert Abby discuss the urgent need for higher education institutions to prepare for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). They explore the infrastructure implications, including power, cooling, and network requirements, and offer strategies like the "10% rule" for manageable implementation.

In this episode, Craig Park and John Dale discuss the concept of open building, a design strategy that emphasizes adaptability and resilience in architecture. John shares insights from his extensive experience in creating flexible environments that can evolve with changing needs. The conversation covers t he origins of open building, its six-layer model, real-world applications, and the future of...

In this solo episode of EdUp Smart Space, I explore the concept of future-ready learning spaces, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, integration, and intelligence in educational environments. I discuss the role of technology in enhancing learning experienc I es and the need for a human-centered design approach that considers equity and inclusion. And, I introduce the seven-layer EdTech Nav...

In this episode of the EdUp Smart Space podcast, Craig Park explores the key insights from InfoComm 25, focusing on the transformative trends in educational technology. Craig shares the practical applications of AI in classrooms , the importance of robust network infrastructure, and the democratization of advanced AV capabilities. The conversation highlights how higher education institutions are l...