About the Learning Commons
The Learning Commons at the Claire T. Carney Library integrates library, technology, and academic support services for UMass Dartmouth students, faculty, and staff.
The Learning Commons, or LC, is a cross-campus collaborative effort administered by the Library and CITS with a campus-wide advisory group. They will ensure that the LC continually develops to meet the ever-changing needs of teaching, learning, and scholarship in a technology-rich environment.
First floor
The first-floor LC is a comfortable place designed for undergraduates to study, write papers, prepare presentations for class, collaborate with groups, do library research, and get help with technology. The LC offers 39 computer work stations, a scanning station, and a print center.
The welcoming, helpful staff at the LC Service Desk can assist with a wide variety of questions, from library and reference resources to technology services, such as COIN, email, and support for software applications. Students can also meet with tutors from the Writing & Reading Center in the evenings for help with writing papers. As the LC develops, additional academic support services will be available at this convenient location.
Scholarly Commons
Faculty and students who are engaged in more advanced research will want to visit the Scholarly Commons on the second floor. Reference librarians there provide expert assistance and instruction in the identification, evaluation, and use of information resources. The Center for Teaching Excellence--also part of the Scholarly Commons--promotes teaching practices that enhance student learning.
Computer & Training Classrooms
The LC Computer and Training Classrooms on the lower level of the library offer two computer classrooms that are also available for campus-wide training and professional development.
Hours
The LC is open during regular library hours, with additional 24x7 access during the last three weeks of classes and exam periods. The lower-level computer classrooms will also be available for student use during peak study times.
Background
The "learning commons" or "information commons" concept has gained momentum on campuses over the past two decades. Many colleges and universities have established them to provide technology-rich, integrated support for learning.
UMass Dartmouth's Learning Commons represents a major step in the university's ongoing mission to provide integrated library, technology, and academic support services for students, faculty, and staff. As the university plans for the expansion and renovation of the Claire T. Carney Library, the Learning Commons offers innovative services to meet students' 21st-century learning needs.
Additional information
