Commons 2.0: Library Spaces Designed for Collaborative Learning

This article is from EDUCAUSE Review and written by Brian Sinclair:

The information commons is a natural extension of the library's traditional mission in a wired world.

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? To what extent do they employ flexible design and take advantage of wireless technology? Do they encourage creativity and discovery and inspire users? Do they offer services and features that students don't already have in campus residence halls and computer labs?

The "Commons 2.0" brings together a wide range of elements to foster student learning in new and creative ways.

The author further links to three additional, potentially useful references:

1. For images of Googleplex workspaces, see J. Chang, "Behind the Glass Curtain," Metropolis, June 19, 2006, http://www.metropolismag.com/cda/story.php?artid=2123 (retrieved July 27, 2007).

2. N. Van Note Chism, "Challenging Traditional Assumptions and Rethinking Learning Spaces," in Learning Spaces, D. G. Oblinger, ed. (Boulder, Colo.: EDUCAUSE, 2006), p. 2.7, http://www.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/PUB7102b.pdf.

3. M. Brown and P. Long, "Trends in Learning Space Design," in Learning Spaces, D. G. Oblinger, ed. (Boulder, Colo.: EDUCAUSE, 2006), p. 9.1–9.2, http://www.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/PUB7102i.pdf.