CO-A Collaborative Journey: The Learning Commons

Emily Ratica

CO

Kolod, L., & Ungar, B. (2016). A collaborative journey: The learning commons. Teacher

Librarian, 43(4), 22-27.

This article discusses both the impediments that many schools are facing in establishing a "learning commons" and the steps that can be taken to overcome those impediments. Many schools are attempting to establish a 21st century skills based curriculum with more technology integration, more access to information, and better inquiry and project based learning. However, space issues, lack of proper funding, no support from site or district administration, and a myriad of other problems often block the efforts of enterprising individuals to create a collaborative space on campus. These educators are inspirational in their attempts. They began small, with a specific plan in place, but relatively no funding, and have gone on to create something functional, useful, and fitted to their specific campus needs.  

I love how these educators sought buy-in from every area of their school. They asked students, parents, teachers, specialists, and administrators for input in order to create a space that everyone could use. They branched out everywhere, thus insuring total participation from everyone. They demonstrated how a learning commons is truly supposed to be a place where all can see themselves working together, regardless of subject area or grade level. The started with an empty classroom and Legos, and through their efforts, were able to obtain funding and support to create a Learning Commons with a Story Lab, Makerspace, Tech Lab, Media Studio, and Research Lab. Their experience gives me hope that as I start this process in my own library, that I too can transform my traditional space into a collaborative commons for my entire school.