Philippine E-Journals

EXPLORING STUDENTS’ USE OF INFORMAL LEARNING SPACES IN AN ACADEMIC LIBRARY

Kate Lora Q. Cruz | Agnes S. Barsaga

 

Abstract:

At this age where library services have seen a dramatic change in the way information is acquired, it would be helpful to know the demographic consistencies and differences in the way traditional library spaces are used and the way the current academic community influences the identity of these spaces. This study seeks to identify the kinds of learning spaces that appeal to different library users and the additional facilities that can be provided in the different spaces of the library. It focuses on the De La Salle University (DLSU) Learning Commons, which was constructed to aid patrons in their various learning activities and events. Facilities with different structures and functions were specifically created for use by students, readers, and the general public. A survey of the Learning Commons was conducted for a period of fifteen days, at random times each day. It revealed that the students’ preferred facilities were the chill area, food and beverages area, general seating area, and reading area. The researchers also analyzed data on the clients’ gender and activities, such as writing, reading, talking, eating, playing, sleeping, playing, or just sitting and using devices like computer, tablet, laptop, or cellphone. Noting the specific library spaces where these activities took place on a day-to-day basis, as well as the time they occurred, the study confirms that the students used the current offerings of these library spaces. A continuous evaluation of such usage opens avenues for considering additional informal learning spaces for the library.