Friday, 7 February 2014

Luton: Social Learning Space

I was wondering if there is a booking system underway for these hubs. I don't think it's fair that these spaces are first-come-first-serve; I try to arrange study groups for my class and it's almost physically impossible to get one of these spaces unless I get here at 9am.

Also, some students abuse the space by using it as a canteen, sometimes, only individuals are in there, sometimes for hours at a time when there are multiple spaces for individuals around campus and a booking system would ensure a more streamlined experience.


Thank you for your enquiry. There is no booking facility for the study space in the Social Learning Space of the LRC at Luton. I understand your frustration in not being able to find a space exactly when you want it but the first come first served facility works reasonably well. It is more equitable and flexible than having a booking service. The study space is for groups so if individuals are using the space please tell staff and they will get the individiual to move to a more appropriate place.

Social Learning Space - Luton Campus LRC ground floor: a learning environment specifically with group activities in mind

7 booths offering a PC, tabled seating and a whiteboard for groups of up to 7 people (offered on a first come first served basis)
sofa area for informal meetings
large laptop area divided by a variety of seating
As a group study area priority will be given to group activities. The only pcs available will be in the booths. This is a wifi area and laptop use is encouraged.

http://lrweb.beds.ac.uk/libraryservices/availableservices/study-env

The Social Learning Space is the only area in the LRC where eating and drinking are allowed. There are appropriate disposal facilities but inevitably (especially around meal times) there may be a "canteen" feel to space.

The IT Suite has capacity for group work. The benches across the middle of the room are big enough for groups of 8 people. You can plug your laptop or USB into the display screen. The sofas with high backed acoustic baffles are also good for group work. There are power plug in for laptops in the table furniture.
There are drop in study rooms in the Campus centre as well.