This post is part of a series about my visit to the University of Warwick to find out about their use of space in the library.
Entrance to the Teaching Grid
The Teaching Grid is a space for academics to experiment with innovative ways of teaching, and incorporating new technologies into their work.
As well as a central area for academics, the Teaching Grid has flexible learning spaces with walls and furniture that can be rearranged to suit the session that is taking place.
In the central area for academics, there is a technology “petting zoo” with tools such as iPads, Kindles, video cameras and sound recorders for academics to try out.
Tech petting zoo
Some of the other tech resources available include a large touchscreen device, Panaboard, iMacs and a document visualiser.
As I looked around the Teaching Grid, it occurred to me that there were three factors contributing to its success:
- A dedicated space where experimentation is encouraged signals both to the person leading/facilitating a session and to the participants that what takes place there will be different
- The high profile of technology helps to make its presence normal, rather than just an add-on or gimmick
- Assistance is available from knowledgeable staff who are available to help you practice a presentation, or try out a new technology you haven’t used before
It was exciting to be in this space and I wished I could have stayed longer to try out all the tools I hadn’t used before.
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