Active Learning Center user research

Background

Purdue’s Active Learning Center (ALC) is aimed to be a facility that seamlessly combines library study and learning spaces with classrooms in one building; it will provide space, resources, services, and technology to support research and active learning.

The research was to learn how current learning spaces were used, where they were succeeding, how they might benefit from additional improvements, and what they would need to support by way of student, disciplinary faculty and Libraries faculty and staff activity in the new space.

Method

Observations: Twice a day for a week at library study spaces observing space and technology usage.

Design Workshops: Users draw and explain what they would like to see in a study space.

Reply Cards: Randomly distributed to students asking what they are doing and why they choose to be here.

Spot Interviews: 5 min interviews asking students’ current activity, how long they’ve been here, and why they choose the location.

Observations

Even though the average space utilization was well below 50%, observation showed that even at 35% utilization a space would feel “full”.

Reply Cards

Interviews

Time spent in the library: 1-2 Hours
Doing work together: 2-3 People

Many students preferred to study in the library or in a library-like space because being there helps them focus, feel comfortable and secure, and do good work. They liked the convenience of walking between classrooms and library spaces.

A very large proportion of students work individually but a significant and probably growing number are required to work in groups – the building must accommodate both.

Personal technology – which students reported that they used more than anything else to complete assignments – is pervasive and requires Wi-Fi, outlets and chargers.

Students need better information about availability of classroom spaces if they are to use these spaces during non-class times.

Impact of research

The research was published as a formal report: Participatory Design of Purdue University’s Active Learning Center Final Report. The report was communicated with the Active Learning Center stakeholders and the architecture firm.

Existing library spaces were also renovated to better support both individual studies and small group work.