Learning Commons

As we work to personalize the education of every student we are continually looking at all aspects of what we do and how we utilize our space to meet this mission.  With that in mind, we are in the process of transforming our media center space from a more traditional library setting to a Learning Commons Environment.  The Learning Commons model is intended to be a flexible space where students are welcome to study, read, collaborate, and relax anytime the doors are open.   As we transform this space our media center staff is working with students to set the expectations while they are utilizing this space.  Something very different from a traditional media center is that students will be able to collaborate in this space, but conversions must be kept at a respectful level.   We do require all students to sign in to the Learning Commons, but the LC staff will not monitor students' comings and goings as long as their behavior in the LC is appropriate.  Comfortable seating, iPad charging stations, and two silent study rooms are available for students to use throughout the day.  Our goal is to create a space student choose to go when they have flexible learning time.  

Our staff can reserve a time for their instruction to be held in the LC just like a traditional media center.  The flexible nature of the environment allows our LC staff to establish the proper environment for each class and the intended activity.  The whole space can be flexible for whatever learning activities will take place that day.  Tables can be moved, outside students can adjust, the computers can be used, etc.  The area can be tailored to a specific class' needs.  This can truly become a flexible learning space!!

We do have times where the the entire space is reserved for one class.  On those days the LC staff will work with any outside students who are working in the LC during that time to make sure that they have a place work so that the class can use the space in a manner that best suits the learning activity.

The Learning Commons concept is a big change, but so far our students have loved it.  We are seeing students make good choices about where to go and how to use their time.  This is truly a case of "if you build it, they will come."