SPEC Kit 342: Next-Gen Learning Spaces · 67
Unobtrusive observations and other anthropological methods
Usability testing, way-finding study, occupancy studies
Usability testing, way-finding studies, photo interviews
We did an analysis of library classroom use. Formerly, we had two hands-on classrooms (one quite out of date), and
multiple other rooms available for simpler presentations and instruction. For pressing reasons of need for office space
the outdated e-classroom was retired, and a temporary second classroom with dedicated laptops was created.
Comments N=4
I found that the service was popular but not scalable nor particularly tied in with teaching/learning goals. We’d want to
reconsider such a service in conjunction with other academic support services.
Libraries have been doing some initial overall user satisfaction and input from students on their perspectives on the
success of the space.
Most assessment occurs at the level of individual campus libraries and we do not have a complete central record of it
nor of all the methods used.
Partnered with Anthropology Department in ethnographic study of the Learning Commons—our largest consolidation
of learning spaces. This is a part of a larger case study analysis of the commons, with outcomes projected for 2015.
23. Has any assessment of your library learning spaces led to ending services, programs, or specific uses
of the spaces? N=66
Yes 24 36%
No 42 64%
If yes, please describe what changed. N=24
A formal Reference Desk has been eliminated we have switched to online chat reference, with on-call help as needed.
A physical roving reference and research help service was dropped in favor of widening the publicity of the availability
of telephone and other contact points for requesting research assistance. At the launch point of our learning commons,
early experiments with merging of circulation and reference related services led to a decision to unmerge some
previously merged services, inclusive of the maintenance of a distinct research help service. Initial assessment of the
vending of technological hardware (laptops, etc.) also led to a decision to not merge that service point in with other
research and circulation related services.
Active Learning Classrooms: tweaked policies and services. Research Commons: reduced number of in-person
workshops, added webcasting.
Attendance has been used to adjust the timing of some drop-in events offered.
Attendance records for drop-in sessions highlighted most popular topics. Led to fewer sessions on presentation skills
and more for writing.
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