Utilization of Space Procedures

Space utilization is an important component of class scheduling. Space utilization is reported to the Missouri Department of Higher Education and the information provided can then can be utilized as justification for additional space and capital project funding.

Classroom and classroom support

Space utilization is determined by the hours per day the classroom is used and the percentage of classroom seats used per hour. It is not efficient to use a 100-seat classroom for a 20-person class. Having the right mix of classroom sizes is critical to efficient use of space.

Teaching laboratories and support space

Space utilization is similar to classrooms, but the usage per day will be less, due to time required to set up labs. Where classrooms should be used 35-40 hours per week, teaching labs should be used 18-25 hours per week.

Additional instructions

• Schedule classes in an appropriately sized classroom. Select a space where room capacity closely mirrors the expected number of students. If a class does not fill as anticipated, move to a smaller capacity space.
• To assist in utilization efficiency, schedule credit courses in academic defined spaces, such as classrooms, computer classrooms, and laboratory space. Use of non-academic space (i.e. conference rooms) for credit courses is not allowable as it decreases university utilization results.
• Utilization reports for specific colleges will be provided upon request via email to SchedulingSupport@Missouristate.edu.