SLS and the Learning Commons

Campus libraries for VU are being transformed into Learning Commons. Learning Commons are student friendly places with:

good IT technology facilities & support - computers, some laptops, datashows, etc
more support services - eg Student Learning Services, Student Career Services as well as Library support services
student rovers - student helpers providing just-in-time help with student problems
good atmosphere - friendly, supportive, quiet conversation

For background info on VU LC, click on the following links:

Keating, S. & Gabb, R. 2005, Putting learning into the Learning Commons

LSS in the Learning Commons

Student Rovers (students helping students)

From 10.00-5.00 each week day, the Learning Commons at City Flinders, St Albans, and Werribee have Student Rovers on the lookout for students with problems.

Student Rovers understand the problems facing new students. They know how to solve these problems - either themselves or by referring the problem to the right staff person. Rovers also enhance approaches to learning by engaging in conversations about learning from a student point of view.

So, Rovers can get students quickly back on track engaging with content and substantive ideas, not being distracted by technology or information issues.

Upshot: If you have students with technology, information, research, library or other problems in doing their assignments, send them to the Learning Commons to see a Rover!

Learning Support Services is delivered in the Learning Commons in three ways: