During summer/fall 2023, Emerson Hall 101 and Emerson Hall 108 underwent renovations to create a more flexible and accessible learning environment, building on the successful classroom redesigns in Harvard 201 and 202. The fixed seating in both classrooms was replaced with movable tables and chairs, allowing instructors to configure the furniture layout for different teaching formats like lectures, case studies, and small group work.
This new flexibility aims to enhance the learning experience by accommodating various pedagogical approaches within the same classroom. In addition, accessibility has been improved for all users by constructing a ramp that provides direct access from one of the building's side entrances through the common areas to the renovated classrooms. Overall, the goal of the renovations was to replicate the benefits of the flexible classroom models utilized in Harvard Hall for additional class spaces in Emerson Hall.