The document introduces a proposed Learning Commons that would shift away from traditional library and computer lab models. It argues that students today need an environment that fosters critical and creative thinking as well as skills like collaboration and problem solving. The Learning Commons is described as both a physical space and a new perspective on learning. It would be designed based on research and with input from students, staff, and parents to create an easy access, student-centered academic space beyond traditional classrooms. The school is currently in the consultation and funding stages of developing their Learning Commons.
2. Why a Learning Commons?
A responsive shift to the demands
of the 21st Century
3. Libraries were designed as a place to house knowledge
and provide student access to information.
Is this how your current
learning space looks ?
Computer labs were designed to teach children how to use
computer programs this type of teaching assumed that all
students needed the same thing at the same time.
4. Simply finding information, or receiving instruction from a wise
other is not the teaching and learning our students will require
to be successful in the 21st century. Our children need an
environment which fosters thinking.
Critical
and
creative
thinking
Innovation
Imagination
Entrepreneurship
Communication
Collaboration
5. The Learning Commons is as much a perspective
as it is a physical place
Developing
rigorous
thought
Active Passionate
Creating Collaboration
Inquiry
Student
Centred
Problem
Finding
Problem
Solving
Space
Academic
Excellence
Exploring
Technology
Social
Space
Honouring
Student Voice
Easy student
access to
materials
8. Our Learning Commons Journey
Creating the
physical space
Design based on
research
Securing base
funding from
UCDSB
Consultation and
input on design
and finishing from
students, staff
and parents
Prioritized
purchasing of
furnishings and
finishings
We a re i n t h i s s t a ge
