Creating Collaborative Spaces at the University of Arizona: Ways to Encourage Interdisciplinary Research and Ideas

Abstract

This case study examined the potential of creating collaborative co-working spaces at the University of Arizona. Through qualitative research on the effectiveness of co-working spaces already in place at three different universities across the nation, this study identified key features that could successfully be implemented at the University of Arizona. These features were a co-working space built around a student organization centered on collaboration and innovation. The latest in technological resources to aid in project execution and learning. Lastly, a partnership with a local makerspace providing students of all backgrounds and interests to collaboratively work on building physical items in a space they might not have had previous access to. While research was limited to university affiliated websites and articles on co-working spaces, scholarly articles on this specific subject where not found to further back conclusive findings and recommendations.