Education Technology Report: CLC introduces unique ‘learning spaces’ at two computer labs

Posted on October 4, 2007 
Filed Under News

Traditional computer seating in two ITS labs will be scaled back to make room for new “learning spaces”, unique social areas that promote informal and collaborative learning. The CLC is prototyping these innovative work areas in 109 Willard Building and 201 Pollock Building.

For them to be most effective, they need to be comfortable, have movable furniture to serve user needs, have access to technology, and provide an ambiance for learning. In the Willard and Pollock labs, there are several different formats for learning spaces.

Some are semi-private rooms separated by partitions where students can meet in groups of two to six persons to work on projects. There is a wide variety of sizes and shapes of tables in the rooms to give students options in how they would like to work. Each room will have at least one computer and a 24-inch monitor, while a few of the bigger rooms will have another computer so larger groups can work on two different parts of a project at the same time. The CLC is also looking at other technologies such as touch-screen monitors and electronic whiteboards as possible additions to these rooms.

Outside the rooms, there is soft furniture with small tables in an open area so students can meet more informally. Most furniture is on wheels and can be moved to meet student needs. There will be wireless access so students can do work via their laptops.

To determine if these new setups are effective, CLC will conduct multiple mini-surveys to determine the effectiveness of these learning spaces to help guide CLC in updating the next computer lab.

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