Learning commons presentation september 2010

Fiji Library Association Host Evening Theme: “Learning Commons” Mr. Sonny Vikash Chandra CLIB, DLIS, B.A. M.App Sci (LIM),AALIA, IFLA Principal Librarian Fiji National University Recipient of the 2010 Endeavour Executive Award 1 st September, 2010

Acknowledgement Sponsors Austraining International Fiji National University Fiji Library Association

Acknowledgement Host Institutions Deakin University Central Queensland University Murdoch University Edith Cowan University University of Notra Dame Curtin University University of Western Australia (Group of 8) University of Adelaide (Group of 8) University of South Australia Central Institute of Technology TAFE Western Australia State Library of Western Australia State Library of South Australia

Overview Introduction What is Learning Commons / Definitions Why is there a need for Learning Commons? What services have been integrated in this model Application of how this concept has been adopted in Australian Libraries. What we can learn from this model / concept

Introduction Learning Commons is a new concept for the Libraries and Librarians in Fiji It is very popular in developed countries such as Australia In Australia, Learning Commons is very popular in Academic Libraries, Public Libraries and State Libraries.

Introduction Learning Commons is a value added library service (“one stop shop model”) Learning Commons concept is taking the library service to the next level The idea of this presentation is to raise awareness of learning commons in Fiji so that other Libraries and Librarians are able to learn and incorporate this new paradigm

What is Learning Commons / Definitions Combining social and study space, an information commons includes areas for students who want to work in group or need to use digital technology, either alone or with classmates. --W. Lee Hisle, Reference Questions in the Library of the Future. CHE September 30, 2005

What is Learning Commons / Definitions Learning Commons is a dynamic, collaborative environment on campus, often physically in the library, that provides assistance to students with information and research needs. It combines individual and group study space, in-depth reference service, and instruction from a variety of sources, including librarians and information technology staff. Some of its key concerns are learning, writing, technology use, and research. Its main purpose is to make student learning easier and more successful. (York University Libraries)

Why is there a need for Learning Commons Shift towards Integrated services model One stop shop concept (Library, computer facilities, student central, student services, adaptive technology etc) Library to act as the “hub” on campus Makes library the centre of teaching and learning system Raises the profile and status of Libraries Provides convenience of service for the Library users Provides library services to people with special needs

Why is there a need for Learning Commons shift towards life long learning and peer learning ability to provide to a blended library service (information literacy classes, assignment writing, computer literacy etc) ability to market services to all library users (including potential library users) ability to reach more people in an effective manner ability to target more library users due to the welcoming environment

Why is there a need for Learning Commons huge preference for: group discussions personal study space collaborative work social space rehearsal for presentations

Types of Services integrated into Learning Commons Library services Computer labs Adaptive technology (people with special needs) Student services (student central) Writing centre Coffee shops Bookshops Galleries Service Bureau (printing, photocopying, laminating, binding etc)

Types of Services integrated into Learning Commons Different libraries have different partners This is based on the needs of the University (partners include: disability services, student services, computer services, writing centre etc)

How Learning Commons concept is used in Australian Libraries Libraries in Australia are presented as: a Social space a Classroom a Meeting room a Computer lab an Office space a Trendy cafe a 24 / 7 library computer lab

How Learning Commons concept is used in Australian Libraries The libraries provide: a wide range of furniture (lounge suites, easy chairs, bean bags, modular workstations, etc) Movable furniture Interactive whiteboards wi-fi connectivity for usage of personal laptops Powered workstations (access to powerpoints) Powered lockers for laptop charging Presence of faculty staff to assist with writing skills etc Provision of multimedia and ID services

How Learning Commons concept is used in Australian Libraries Blends information and reference desk services at a single service point Adds collaborative and personal study areas Integrates other campus services within the library Offers a variety of seating arrangements / configurations

Lessons to learn Learning commons adds value to the library services Raises the profile and status of libraries Provides library staff an opportunity to learn new technology and skills Ability to introduce new library services and facilities Ability to provide a wide range of services to the library users (including potential users) Ability to contribute towards enhancing the patrons Library experience.

Examples The preceding slides will illustrate of how the Learning commons concept has been used at the Host Institutions that I was attached to as part of my skills and career development.

Thank you for listening Questions and Answers Session Evaluation Questionnaire

Learning commons presentation september 2010

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