Inspiring Group Learning Louise Toner

Aim Aim Scope Objectives To outline different options for the college to support Group learning by looking at some design models that would accommodate this type of work.  Scope Determine the feasibility of designing and providing designated Group learning spaces in SERC. Identify Group learning spaces benefits: Objectives To investigate innovative types of group study areas which would improve the learner experience to deliver the college objectives on ‘resource, quality and curriculum’ To explore learner and teaching staff opinions on the benefits of providing flexible spaces for both quiet study and collaboration

Independent & Inspired to Learn a. Linking pedagogical and classroom design b. Pedagogical vision for use of technology learning spaces c. Support collaborative learning & teaching d. Student needs & expectations e. Learning environment engaging innovative stimulating f. Support for Leaner flexability adaptabilitly “inspirational innovative and inclusive learning environment which will empower individuals to fulfil their ambition”. Independent & Inspired to Learn Design I believe y that when you walk through the door of a place of learning, you should feel proud, uplifted, motivated… that should be college intent The majority of staff and students (more than 60 per cent) agreed that This mood change is reflected in colour and design features, and supported by use of background sound at the entrances. Support collaborative learning and teaching see others engaged in learning can energize learners innovative and stimulating accommodate diverse learning and teaching styles Space should be fluid so that it can accommodate different learning and teaching styles effortlessly  

Pedagogic Aims Justify the need The pendulum has swung towards active, collaborative and blended learning styles combining social interaction with work. Student & Faculty Experience Basic Human Needs Teaching Learning Engagement Comfort Convenience Support for Learner Method Technology & Tools Flexibility Effectiveness Style Technology & Tools Flexibility Effectiveness Communication Collaboration Interaction Retention  

Research Surveys responses from 2013 Student LRC Survey & Focus groups Online Survey “Inspiring Group Learning” Students and Academic staff Interviews with staff SERC Learning Resources Manager SERC staff GIS RSCni staff, South West College staff On-line research Bangor & Ards Bookable rooms

& Focus Groups responses Inspiring Group Learning responses 2013 Student LRC survey & Focus Groups responses No area for quiet study Noise levels in LRC distracting Lack of power points for personal laptops to plug into SERC network Wifi access needs to be improved Group work areas should be available Student Key Findings Inspiring Group Learning responses Group work integral part of curriculum 71% GL room would be beneficial Recommended GL room in Lisburn Preferably GL room in close near LRC Comfy room, good environment all together, not separated by large desks , Lots of resources

Inspiring Group Learning

Inspiring Group Learning Key Findings Staff Inspiring Group Learning Survey Students are required to participate in group work and at least once a week No proper group areas Not enough areas to support GL Insufficient PC’s in LRC’s Group work invaluable needs to be a designated GL area 73% highlighted a well equipped GL room would be beneficial Important consideration was that GL area should be conducted in a controlled environment.

Figure 2 Illustrates the number of enrolments and the level by Primary Campus

Options Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Enhance the LRC’s current learning environment by creating new learning spaces in study pods. Option 2 Develop a designated group room within the LRC which would be purposely designed to enhance collaboration. This would be a totally flexible space which could be used for quiet private study when not booked for groups Option 3 Refurbish a single dedicated classroom on each campus to be used as flexible group work room

Learning Resource Manager Project Cross Curriculum Obtaining support from key stakeholders will be crucial to the development and implementation Key Stakeholders CMT Estates Learning Resource Manager Heads of Department ICT Support Services Students Academic Staff Pilot and Implementation Team

Group Learning Room Resources Costs Technology and furnishings BYOD

Impact & Risk Impact and Benefits of Implementing Project Understanding the Risks Help meet SERC’s “2020 vision” Help attract students in a competitive educational market. Impact on College quality objective "to promote a culture of excellence” Enhance customer experience & user satisfaction Impact on student well being and learning Meet evolving pedagogical and academic development needs Impart a feeling of campus culture to students Benchmarking best practice in teaching & learning Desirable changes in pedagogic approach Obtaining support from key stakeholders The scope, equipment, costs, appropriate design Service quality User expectation Do nothing Lose students Lose competitive edge in educational market Resources – SCSO brief ROs at HOS meeting Impact – ROs accountable and more proactive – KPI to measure performance Sector benchmark - Best practice – contribution towards 2020 vision Risk – Lose competitive edge

Areas in the LRC’s to be looked at and possibly refurbished/redesigned Create a much larger learning space in the college e.g. a Creativity Zone or an Ideas Centre “You can’t be sure how these spaces will be used. You are just creating the opportunities for things to happen” SWC Looking to the Future

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