Author: jurellph

1. Feng shui, anyone?
Rank, with 1 representing the most important. What aesthetic aspects make the information commons space welcoming?
Café
Lively Colors
Interesting patterns and textures
Natural lighting
Welcoming, informal atmosphere
Art displays
Spaces for films
Web links and virtual displays to connect in-person events
Other, please explain
2. “To be, or not to be.”
Rank key elements in planning, with 1 representing the most important.
Develop a vision statement related to learning
Conduct a needs assessment
Develop strategic goals
Design an assessment plan
Determine appropriate partners
Define and gain financial resources
Determine location
Define services to offer
Determine staff needs
Develop floor plan
Other, please explain

3. “Whatcha doin’?”
Rank, with 1 as the most important. What is the most common activity in the information commons?
Write class papers
Work collaboratively on class project (on site or virtually)
Hold impromptu meeting
E-mail friends, professors, others
First stop for research needs
Manipulate data
Develop presentations
Multitasking
Other, please explain
4. “Attention Kmart Shoppers!”
Rank, with 1 as the most important. What is the best way to promote the information commons?
Colorful banners
Computer default screens
Mouse pads
Display digital resources on large screens
Exhibit student products developed as a result of work in the info commons
Staff collaboration with student focus groups
Information commons web page
Other, please explain

5. “Comin’ down the pike”
Rank, with 1 being the most important. What will be the most used software application in 3 years for information services and learning?
VOIP (voice over Internet protocol)
Text messaging
Chat via Meebo or other application
E-mail
MMOG/virtual worlds, e.g. Second Life
Other, please explain
6. “If you build it, they will come.”
Rank, with 1 being the most important. Where should an information commons be located?
Library
Student center
Classroom/Academic building
No matter where, they will come
Other, please explain
7. “There’s no “I” in T-E-A-M.”
Rank, with 1 being the most important.
Staffing challenges: what is the most challenging aspect of staffing an information or learning commons?
Technical staff answering reference questions
Librarians answering technical questions
No one can possibly know everything
Failure to make effective referrals
Inadequate knowledge of new technology
Specialization of staff in particular skills or subject
Individuals or departments are territorial of their particular area, service, or level or service
Other, please explain

8. “What seems to be the problem?”
Rank, with 1 being the most important.
What is the biggest obstacle to starting up an information commons?
IT staff
Librarians
Lack of teamwork among staff
Lack of collaboration among campus units
Hours of operation
Finding a location for the commons
Finances/funding
Other, please explain
9. “Take a load off.”
Rank, with 1 being the most important. Which furniture works best (or should be included)
Fixed individual workstations
Furniture with wheels for easy mobility
Soft, comfortable seating
Bean bag chairs for informal setting
Portable whiteboards
Modular furniture
Other, please explain
10. “Look, Ma, no hands!”
Rank, with 1 being the most important.
What are the means to successful service?
Use peers as staff to which students are more likely to approach for help
Offer service more hours than previously offered by using students
Consistent training and education of staff and patrons
Cross-training of staff
Use student workers from all participating campus units
Other, please explain