1. Inspiring Group Learning Louise Toner

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. & 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

7. Inspiring Group Learning

8. 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.

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

10. 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

11. 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

12. Group Learning Room Resources Costs Technology and furnishings BYOD

13. 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

14. 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

15. Any Questions?