Introduction to the Project
The UBC Faculty of Education was successful in its UBC Learning Space Improvement Project bid to refurbish the computer labs in Scarfe 1006 and 1007 into flexible teaching/learning spaces effective summer 2018. Students have told us for many years that they lack space to work on collaborative projects, which form such a large part of many courses, particularly in the BEd Program, and the Scarfe computer labs have become less and less frequently used, especially as most students now have their own devices. The project proposal and adjudication process was rigorous, and our Faculty’s proposal was ranked among the top four across the campus to be funded.
The new design was based in part on UBCO’s Learning Lab (https://innovativelearningcentre.ca/about/physical-space/) and includes very flexible seating as well as several fixed computer stations with some specialized, UBC-licensed software (SPSS, Camtasia, etc.). The two spaces will allow students to work on projects together, practise-teach in small groups, and they will also be bookable by instructors who wish to schedule teaching and learning activities. This is an opportunity for those who are keen to model how to teach in flex spaces.
An advisory committee was established (based on an invitation to all faculty, staff and grad students) and has developed guidelines for scheduling use of the studio, evaluate how the rooms are used, and address questions or concerns, etc.
Principles of Use
Established May 1, 2018
Vision:
The Scarfe Teaching and Learning Studios are student centred spaces designed to foster interactive work and facilitate teaching and learning in a flexible environment.
Faculty of Education students, faculty, staff, researchers, and visiting scholars are invited to use the Scarfe Teaching and Learning Studios for workshops and events that demonstrate the pedagogical capacity of the spaces. These include practice teaching and model teaching, class visits when a flexible environment is required, and group project work. Only one of the two rooms will be bookable at any one time to ensure that space is available for drop in student use.
What the Scarfe Studios are not:
- Silent study space
- Regularly scheduled classroom space
Booking:
- Bookings are managed through a Faculty of Education form: http://it.educ.ubc.ca/book-a-teaching-and-learning-studio/
- At the time of booking, users are required to provide a written rationale (no more than 50 words) that shows the proposed program aligns with the principles of use.
- During the months of September and October, booking preference is given to workshops and events that provide examples of teaching and technology integration in flexible environments.
- Outside of September and October, booking preference is given to students using the space in a collaborative, creative way.
