1.+The+Learning+Commons

= //__The New Learning Commons__// = = What is it? =
 * Interactive, collaborative, engaging, stimulating, dynamic
 * Learners can work on anything they want using any tools or resources they need
 * Sometimes noisy, messy
 * Collaborative communication groups encouraged
 * Virtual presence 24/7 (including Google based apps )
 * Learning centre needs space for both quiet and noisy engagement
 * Still need a place of solace, respect patrons who need a place of security, support and peace
 * Balance class work, social activities
 * Flexible furniture to allow for easy re-arrangement of space to fit needs (ex: boys like to stand, have stand-up desks) of various groups and activities
 * Changes perception of the library
 * Kids are naturally noisy – should design space to accommodate their activities
 * A place where teaching expert can collaborate (best if they have their office in the learning commons)

Are we there yet?

 * We’re heading that way
 * Bits and pieces are being introduced to schools and libraries
 * Some staff have nostalgia for “quiet library” space, and control
 * Studying & reading & independent work - critically important if old fashioned
 * Not all teachers are there yet, teachers bring classes to the library and still want to maintain class-like control
 * Organic and long-term process
 * Libraries cannot remain static and the same, must move forward
 * Room at the back of library, quiet place for teachers to come and discuss lessons
 * Different from Public Libraries because we have to keep kids in school and our libraries until they are 18 years old
 * Go slow and sure to get there, try one thing at a time
 * Teachers are posing some resistance
 * Students are into the technology
 * Some teachers see is as lower standards
 * A struggle to be bombarded by overt personalities and providing space for patrons who need a place of solace
 * The secondary and elementary libraries are different in noise levels

Where do I fit it?

 * District-controlled collaborative online platforms – ex: TDSB Academic Workspace
 * WIKI’s for Literature discussions
 * Classroom & Library Blogs
 * Student, teacher, teacher-librarian and parent input to discussions and decisions
 * Google apps: ad-free for schools; Google doesn’t control content, students, staff control content; Teacher-Librarian and everyone else in the school is involved
 * Have a place to discuss with teachers and students
 * Virtual space, school webpage and more
 * Fun ideas like Garage Band recording to attract students, to get funding. Held in library because they see the space as a hub
 * E-book databases
 * Dance group active space: at do you need the space for? Flexibility
 * Meets the needs of everyone in the school
 * Secondary schools can have 2-3-4-5 classes working in any given period