Carleton University is creating a new space to bring educators and students together to share, research and design thanks to $1 million in funding from the Government of Ontario and a matching contribution from the university.
This investment from the province’s Training Equipment and Renewal Fund will support the transformation of the fourth floor of the MacOdrum Library, including the Discovery Centre, into a newly designed space called the Future Learning Lab.
“This is an exciting moment for Carleton to tangibly support pedagogical practices that push boundaries and collaborate with students as partners in the teaching and learning process,” says Jerry Tomberlin, Provost and Vice-President (Academic). “At its core, the lab aims to help learners succeed and develop skills beyond traditional academic activities.”
A bird’s-eye view of some of the new elements that will be added to the fourth floor of the library.
The Future Learning Lab is envisioned as both a physical space and set of programs designed to foster innovation and incentivize student-centred ways of teaching.
“The last four years have proven great things happen when government and post-secondary education institutions come together to provide our students the resources they need to succeed,” says Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “The Future Learning Lab will truly enhance the way students engage with their education. Our students are our future and we’re committed to supporting their skills development and growth.”
In addition to fostering student and instructor partnerships, the lab will encourage undergraduate research opportunities and offer innovation grants. It will also provide physical and virtual spaces for instructors to innovate with pedagogical design, as well as enhance study spaces for students.
“With the creation of the Future Learning Lab, Carleton is demonstrating its commitment to student success and the development of the whole person,” says David Hornsby, Associate Vice-President (Teaching and Learning). “The new layout and programs that will be unveiled in this space will facilitate the sharing of innovative ideas and enhance Carleton’s ability to develop thought leaders and engaged citizens.”
The Future Learning Lab will feature enhanced study areas for students and spaces where instructors can innovate with pedagogical design.
The Future Learning Lab provides further support for Carleton’s Strategic Integrated Plan under the Share Knowledge, Shape the Future direction by approaching teaching and pedagogy with imagination and new expectations.
“We are excited for the library to be the home of the Future Learning Lab,” says Amber Lannon, University Librarian. “The library has always been at the centre of teaching, learning and research and an essential gateway to knowledge, and therefore it’s the ideal location for this student-centred space.”
The development of the Future Learning Lab will occur in two phases, beginning with the space renewal on the fourth floor of the library. Teaching innovation grants and other programming, including student skills development certificates, will follow. The new space is set to be unveiled in fall 2022.
About Carleton University
Carleton University is a dynamic, research-intensive institution that engages in partnerships to address the world’s most pressing challenges. The university’s corporate collaborations bring together world-class companies, researchers and a new generation of talent with 32,000 students to deliver innovations and results that are driving a more prosperous, sustainable future.
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Steven Reid (he/him)
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Carleton University
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Steven.Reid3@carleton.ca
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Wednesday, May 4, 2022 in News Releases
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