Fiji Library Association

Host Evening

Theme: “Learning Commons”

Mr. Sonny Vikash ChandraCLIB, DLIS, B.A. M.App Sci (LIM),AALIA, IFLA

Principal LibrarianFiji National University

Recipient of the 2010 Endeavour Executive Award

1st September, 2010

Acknowledgement

Sponsors

Austraining International

Fiji National University Fiji Library Association

Acknowledgement Host Institutions

Deakin UniversityCentral Queensland University Murdoch UniversityEdith Cowan UniversityUniversity of Notra DameCurtin UniversityUniversity of Western Australia (Group of 8)University of Adelaide (Group of 8)University of South Australia Central Institute of TechnologyTAFE Western AustraliaState Library of Western AustraliaState Library of South Australia

Overview

IntroductionWhat is Learning Commons /  DefinitionsWhy is there a need for Learning Commons? What services have been integrated in this

modelApplication 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 / DefinitionsLearning 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 CommonsShift towards Integrated services modelOne stop shop concept (Library, computer

facilities, student central, student services, adaptive technology etc)

Library to act as the “hub” on campusMakes library the centre of teaching and learning

system Raises the profile and status of LibrariesProvides convenience of service for the Library

usersProvides library services to people with special

needs

Why is there a need for Learning Commonsshift 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 servicesComputer labsAdaptive technology (people with special

needs) Student services (student central) Writing centreCoffee shopsBookshopsGalleriesService 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 spacea Classrooma Meeting rooma Computer laban Office spacea Trendy cafea 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 furnitureInteractive whiteboardswi-fi connectivity for usage of personal laptopsPowered workstations (access to powerpoints)Powered lockers for laptop chargingPresence of faculty staff to assist with writing

skills etcProvision 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 learnLearning commons adds value to the library

servicesRaises the profile and status of librariesProvides library staff an opportunity to learn new

technology and skillsAbility 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