Today is the world of information sharing and library is the best part to work on information. But today library design is not enough to fit into the requirement of collaborative learning, isn’t it?
Now collaborative learning is a very common approach to share knowledge. With the rise of internet and social network sites like blogs, orkuts, newsgroups, youtube etc. we are witnessing a major shift in the ways students approach and use information. They no longer merely consume and download information only; increasingly, they create and participate in it. They are social creatures in every way that past generations were and in some new ways, sharing information digitally and using each other as sounding boards. They value social experiences that blend communication and learning.
The libraries should be set according to the students need. Libraries first incarnation of the information commons resembled large, fixed computer labs that were, by the large, hardware centered. This should be arranging by the layering of new technology with the old. For instance students’ can venture out with their laptops or portable devices to peruse the book stacks or visit the library’s special collections.
What more the Traditional Library required?
Every time when me and my friends think about today’s culture of learning we found some loose corners in traditional library space to work on like:
Library Equipments
Collaborative learning brings together a wide range of elements to faster student learning in new and creative ways. Me and my friend watching the library with wide screen high-definition monitors, rotating screen projectors, laptop docking stations, wi-fi internet facilities. Where the students are not only studying books and article but actively participating online, making own definitions and broad collaborative discussions on topics and their interest of areas.
Comfortable Spacing
It should be design for many types of learners, not just one. The traditional library furniture wooden tables and chairs also facilitate collaboration, but there should be different types of seating spaces as well. Like sofas, large upholstered chairs, multi position chairs, task chairs, and other furnishings are found throughout the space. The goal is to make learners comfortable.
Inspiring Environment
The space should feel dynamic; with artwork, paintings, kinetic sculptures, ceramics and other art can be display in and around the commons to inspire learners. The furnishing, layout and design should present a uniform and consistent vision of functionality, sophistication, and creativity.
Beginning to think of the whole campus, as a learning space. Shred spaces devices and software can expand a single laptop display to multiple widescreen monitors so that everyone seated around a table or workspace becomes part of the study. Add a wireless keyboard and mouse, laser pen and pointer, and everyone has the opportunity for hands on input. Again the goal is the make learners comfortable. Holding focus groups or simply asking learners can help determine the appropriate features.
The information commons itself must adapt and evolve to meet changing expectations and technological capabilities. How well do these environments currently support social learning and promote collaborative work? Do they encourage creativity and discovery and inspire learners?
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