Angels have the phone box

New Generation Learning Spaces Colloquium – University of Queensland Day 2

Stunning staircase at Biological Science Library UQ with the Brisbane River metaphor in lighting...

The day kicked off with a bang with a presentation by Keith Webster, University Librarian UQ. His talk New generation students what do the need? Looked at the evolution of library spaces from dark places with very little light to 4th generation where pedagogy and learning environments are central to library design:

• Libraries are now responding to new ways of teaching and learning
• We are central to the student/learning experience
• We are creating spaces that are much more collaborative and technology-rich
• Libraries are no in the learning space business

UQ has done specific studies in how students:

• Want to use library space
• Actually use library space

The studies included:

1. Design workshop facilitated by the architect Hamilton Wilson who worked on scenarios with students to explore what kind of space/design they would want for group assignments, individual assignments and study
2. Assignment case studies - focus groups, log books (with photos), reflection on how students use library space when working on particular assignments
3. Space Use survey – comparison between intended activity and actual activity and outcomes of visit to library (see http://www.uq.edu.au/nextgenerationlearningspace/index.html?page=85849). I am particularly interested in the survey instrument that UQ designed for this. I will be getting in touch to see if I can get a copy.

As we know in library’s students what more of everything, more quiet space, more noisy space, more computers, more power points – more everything. But less noise!

Library space use is seasonal. The students what noisy, collaborative spaces at the beginning of semester and quieter spaces when exams/assignments are due. UQ are experimenting with a flat-board partition that can be used on group tables to give students move privacy and convert collaborative spaces into more individual study places.

The important thing to note as UQ is quite a different University than the one I work at. Although they have showcase libraries that are absolutely stunning, there are certainly things to learn from them, but they may or may not work in the context of this library.

Great ideas from ACTS (Advanced Concept Teaching Space)

ACTS experimental, concept teaching space U - a sandpit for trying new ways of teaching

Derek Powell is a lucky man. He has the resources to create a state of the art concept teaching space that allows academics to experiment and play with new ways of teaching. It will also provide a space where research can be conducted into learning and teaching. It is awe-inspiring! The experimental space allows UQ staff to play with:

• lighting – different colours and heats
• Software – polling, annotations, communication
• Layout – double-tiered for group discussion
• Communication channels – touch screens, blade technology and thin clients, translation packages
• RFID to remember teacher setup preferences when using the room and to determine whether completed all of the professional development associated with using the room

This space was made possible through partnerships with industry. A testing ground of what works and what may not work. It cost over 2.5 million. The aim of which is to develop state of the art teaching and learning spaces.

It will be really interesting to watch this space and the research that comes out about the use of the technologies etc…

Lessons learning

Student sleeping in the Science Learning Centre - cool it is their space they can use it how they want

• it’s all about context – one size doesn’t fit all
• evaluation is key to ensure that we are getting bang for our buck – are the spaces working
• pedagogy is vital – what learning is occurring in these spaces
• well designed space can change the dynamics of a class
• most faculties what to encourage active learning
• glass walls can be used to open up the classroom and show others what goes on
• whiteboards for walls is a key trend
• portable partitions to allow students to create their own privacy
• giving students lockers is valued
• power points everywhere
• space needs to be flexible
• students need to to feel they own the space to care for and engage with it
• spaces need to cater for a more student-centred approach and move away from didactic approach
• look to others for ideas but not the solution
• students need social spaces within faculty to build community
• locus of control should be with learners
• technology is a tool it shouldn’t be the focus
• importance of creating spaces that mimic real life workplaces
• use furniture that can be easily reconfigured
• ask all stakeholders what they want/need
• be opened to possibilities, be bold, creative, enterprising
• expect the unexpected often students will use space in ways you didn’t imagine
• Libraries are leaders when it comes to evaluating their spaces.
• Libraries are leaders in the learning space game. It has been about a decade since libraries began to build new generation libraries and our clients are pleased with the results

I took photos on my iphone so the quality is not crash hot but you get the idea. This is one of my favourites.

I must say that I found the colloquium interesting and it reinforced  that libraries are doing well in this area. There are also very specialised learning spaces like Melbourne Universities Learning Lab, UQs Engineering Learning Centre and many more that show that context is the key!

Another unexpected outcome was the opportunity to catch up with so many of my colleagues past and present. I also met up with the one of  the Deputy Deans from my University and we talked about a possible research project. The Networking opportunites were great and I met so many interesting people.