Academic Libraries: U. of Wisconsin-Madison Launches Improved Library Technology Space

From The Badger Herald:

The University of Wisconsin is kicking off technological updates to campus libraries in a grand opening ceremony today as part of an effort to optimize student learning.
College Library and Wendt Commons, the engineering library, will both undergo the learning-focused remodel known as the Wisconsin Collaboratory for Enhanced Learning Center.
With a new assortment of high-technology spaces, John Booske, a UW professor of electrical and computer engineering who fronted the initiative, said WisCEL will create an entirely new meaning for a place where he said students already spend most of their time: the library.
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College Library Director Carrie Kruse also said the program is designed to fit every student’s needs.
“Students coming in to take classes can interact with the space in a different way than they would with a traditional classroom,” Kruse said. “Other students can experience different styles of learning with the spaces versus the traditional study rooms.”
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WisCEL’s technology will allow students to prepare for class by watching a video lecture. Then, to maximize learning, students will be able to work in small groups to discuss the material they watched. Meanwhile, an instructor is able to answer questions that each student or group may have, according to Booske. Finally, the students will be able to use a particular web-based software that quizzes them and gives instant feedback, Booske said.

Learn More About WisCEL Including Floor Plans and Images
See Also: Student services enhance College Library (via U. of Wisconsin-Madison News)

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