if we build it… creating and using a flexible teaching and learning space

If we build it…Creating and using a flexible teaching and learning space

Jennifer Thiessen & Carol WuBrock University

Ontario Library Association Super ConferenceFebruary 5, 2005

Pre-2003

Background

Proposed by:– Library– Centre for Teaching, Learning and Educational

Technologies (CTLET)

Need:– Shared electronic instructional space

Reviewed electronic classrooms at other institutions

Background… cont.

Acquired new space and relocated technical services staff

Renovatespace tocreate astate-of-the-art electronicclassroom

Background… cont.

Initial planning and design team– Library– CTLET– University architect– University Information Technology Services

Equipment & Furnishing Needs

Sought input from librarians and consultants…– Networking

– Instructor/Student equipment

– Lectern

– Sound

– Projection

– Lighting

– Audio-visual control unit

– Tables & chairs

Planning Challenges

Wireless vs. hard wires– Raised or no raised floor – cost– Bandwidth

Movable furniture vs. fixed furniture

Aesthetics– Color scheme– Wood staining

Process

Budget– University vs. Library funding– Donations

Team expansion– External architect– Construction company

• Organize and oversee construction progress

– Additional contractors

June 2003The fun began…

Suit up!

Construction

Challenge – Supervision

Multiple contractors– Demolition– Electrical– Mechanical– Lighting– Audio-Visual– And more…

Challenge – Equipment

Tablet PCs vs. laptops– Flexibility– Stimulate teaching/learning strategies– Security

Placement and design of lectern– Height– # of equipment to accommodate

January 2004Grand opening…

Policy of Use

Ad hoc committee– Reconfirmed library & CTLET partnership– Types of activities

• Library seminars and workshops• Faculty courses• Meetings• Special events• Study hours

– Set up & support issues

One person’s experience…

Intensive English Language Program

Teaching and Learning

Why/how e-classroom facilitates effective teaching and learningFeatures of the roomLearning styles– Visual– Auditory– Kinesthetic/Psychomotor; active learning

Teaching styles

Teaching and Learning… cont’d

Visual/Auditory– Audio/visual: DVD, VHS – Dual projectors/screens– Document camera

Kinesthetic– Flexible furniture– Wireless tablets– Room layout

Teaching and Learning… cont’d

Teaching styles– Collaborative– Active

Some examples

Drama– Prof. Marlene Moser– Audience-Stage Relationships

Business– Prof. Brian Metcalfe

Learning From Each Other

Debriefing sessions– Faculty– Library staff– Facilitators (CTLET)

Evolution of policies

Challenges

Faculty vs. librarians

Increasing comfort level

Appropriate use of technology

Future Considerations

Evaluation– Instruction

• Level of hands-on instruction

• Group vs. individual learning

– Space

– Policy

– Technology

– Support – more students?

– And more…

Questions?

Jennifer Thiessenjthiesse@brocku.ca

&Carol Wu

cwu@brocku.ca