Breaking new ground

In the Health Science Center’s newest building, classrooms enable real-time observation of procedures, complex surgeries and clinical simulations in a dynamic, discussion-based
learning atmosphere.

The $51.2 million Academic Learning & Teaching Center was dedicated in February. At 130,000 square feet, it features more than 33 modern classrooms and strategic learning spaces, and a state-of-the-art digital anatomy laboratory with 3-D interactive imaging capabilities. It also includes a restaurant.

“As health educators, we have seen a massive explosion in knowledge,” said Health Science Center President William L. Henrich, M.D., MACP. “The Academic Learning & Teaching Center is one of the nation’s most advanced learning environments, a worthy place to train the health care providers South Texas needs.”

Classrooms range in size from the area of a football field that can accommodate 280 students to seminar rooms that seat 12 to 18.

“Unique to this new teaching environment, there is no front or back of the classroom—it is an integrated space linked by technology,” said Francisco González-Scarano, M.D., dean of the Long School of Medicine and executive vice president for medical affairs. “The interaction this inculcates will enhance students’ ability to gain mastery of complex concepts of health care, both in the Long School of Medicine and throughout the Health Science Center.”