A new learning space at York University's Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) is set to transform traditional classroom learning settings into dynamic hubs for active learning.
The CoLearn Collaborative Learning Space is an innovative initiative designed to foster collaborative and engaged active learning that promises to enrich the academic journey for students and educators.
The space places students at the forefront of pedagogical approaches, ensuring that teaching and innovations are aligned with the needs and preferences of current learners.
Strategically positioned in the heart of York's Keele Campus, the new CoLearn active learning classrooms located in the Ross Building provide easy access for students. Designed to promote experiential learning and increase opportunities for digital content creation, CoLearn classrooms offers three classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and learning tools.
CoLearn officially opened its doors March 20 and invited teaching-focused faculty members to tour the new classrooms and explore the features of the space.
"As we unveil the CoLearn spaces, we are not only investing in innovative teaching and learning environments but also reinforcing our commitment to providing quality education for all," says J.J. McMurtry, dean of LA&PS. "These flexible classrooms encourage active engagement and relationships among students, supporting various learning styles. By improving the educational experience, they contribute to a culture of inclusivity and excellence necessary for preparing students for today's challenges."
The CoLearn space is designed to support a range of learning formats: online, in-person and hyflex. A standout feature is the one-button recording studio that allows instructors to create high-quality digital learning materials outside of traditional classroom settings. This studio boasts a lightboard and drawing tablet for recording lecture videos, as well as a greenscreen for virtual field trips, all equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound for optimal recording quality.
Additionally, the space features three active learning classrooms with movable furniture that can be easily rearranged to accommodate various teaching activities and approaches. The classrooms are also equipped with movable whiteboards and smartboards, allowing instructors to adapt their teaching methods flexibly and innovatively.
"This initiative represents a genuine collaborative effort; the support from our faculty and staff has been instrumental in making this transformational learning space a reality," stated Neil Buckley, associate dean of teaching and learning at LA&PS. "This studio will provide educators with the tools to develop high-quality active and digital learning experiences that address the diverse needs of our student population. We are eager to see how CoLearn will foster innovative teaching practices and improve learning outcomes for all students."
To further improve the learning experience, dedicated pedagogical support will be offered by the LA&PS Teaching & Learning team, with technical assistance from eServices team members accessible on site. This comprehensive support structure ensures that both students and instructors can effectively utilize the innovative features of these new classroom environments.
The successful establishment of the CoLearn space is made possible by funding from the Government of Ontario's Training Equipment and Renewal Fund (TERF), along with additional and matching funds from LA&PS. The initiative has also benefitted from the contributions of numerous individuals and teams within the Faculty, including the eServices team, the Teaching & Learning team, central facilities, the Dean's Office and from Anita Lam, former associate dean of teaching and learning, whose contributions were instrumental in its development.
The introduction of CoLearn reinforces the Faculty's commitment to addressing student needs through an inclusive and dynamic educational approach that prepares learners for future challenges. This initiative aligns with the Faculty's work toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in providing quality education and aligns with York University's Academic Plan (UAP) 2020-2025, which emphasizes fostering access and success for all students.
To learn more about the space or to book a visit, see the CoLearn website.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
