I would like to introduce the Kanazawa University Learning Commons. Following the Shiinoki Cultural Complex, I was also involved in part of the design for this project. I would also like to thank Professor Yamauchi of the University of Tokyo (Educe Technology) for his assistance with the concept and zoning. Thank you very much.

We did not have the budget to build an extension or a new building, so the project took the form of renovating the existing library. Nevertheless, I believe we have created something excellent.

This is the learning space equipped with movable desks and chairs. The desks can be combined in various configurations. It is truly a space for collaborative learning, aimed at creating shared knowledge.

 
While it can be used for classes, its primary use is not for lectures, but as a place for students to gather and work independently. Even during classes, we do not exclude other users. In fact, I would be happy if students were standing and watching, and that is something I hope to encourage.

We have also provided whiteboards that can be used by individual groups. Additionally, we have prepared three projectors and screens. We considered fixed screens, but since the desks are movable and the placement might change depending on the situation, we decided to use portable ones instead of fixed installations.

Furthermore, as this space is designed for group learning, we have provided WIVIA. Not only can it connect to projectors wirelessly, but it can also project the screens of up to four group members simultaneously. Since it involves wireless connection, I am a bit concerned as our students’ computer skills are somewhat weak, but I believe this will be a great tool and I intend to use it actively myself.

A cafe will open on the second floor (the entrance floor). We held a contest for the shop’s name, and it has been named “Honwakafe.” This area is also equipped with a projector and a screen. The screen is electric and fixed in place. We envision this space being used for science cafes or seminars that can be held while casually enjoying a coffee.

Previously, this space was used for reading newspapers and watching overseas programs, and it retains those functions, allowing people to enjoy the cafe while watching TV or reading newspapers. The menu is also extensive. Coffee starts at 150 yen, which is a student-friendly price. In addition to coffee, you can also drink tea, matcha lattes, juice, and more. You can also eat cakes and light sandwiches. They even provide 1.5L of coffee. It seems easy to request for events. A set of a sandwich and coffee for 400 yen is quite cheap, isn’t it?

Now, the next step is learning support. This is the crux of the matter. It involves the enhancement of learning support measures and tools, as well as the issue of training learning supporters. I have various ideas about what kind of learning support to provide, so I need to discuss this with the library staff. A major challenge that the library must consider is the coexistence of people who want to study alone and this type of learning space. Our library has an atrium between the second and third floors, so I am worried that sound might echo… However, since we are aiming to move away from the concept of a space only for quiet study, we have no choice but to try things out as we go. That is the situation here.