Janet Loebach

I am an environmental design researcher and consultant, specializing in evidence-based programming, design and evaluation of environments for special users, such as children, seniors, and those with disabilities or health conditions.  Areas of expertise include natural and built play environments, learning and child-care environments, healthcare facilities, residential environments or care facilities, as well as urban and community planning.

I also have expertise in the development and facilitation of participatory design, planning and building processes, particularly with children and youth or other special users.  I have also successfully employed participatory design/build processes for the development of community play spaces in developing countries, including Peru and Guatemala.

I have extensive experience in both developing and delivering courses at both the undergraduate (college & university) and graduate level across many disciplines (Environment-Behaviour Studies & Environmental Design, Architecture & Planning, Interior Design, Landscape Design, Engineering and Geography), particularly in the areas of environment-behaviour studies, environmental and ecological psychology, human factors, and research and design of environments for health, learning, play and work.  I also have substantial research and teaching experience in qualitative, quantitative, mixed and field research methods.

I currently serve on the Board of Directors of the International Play Association (Canada) and as co-chair of the Children & Youth Environments Network of the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA).