No strings attached? Challenges and successes in creating a flexible, wire-free active learning classroom

• Published in: Library hi tech 2018-05, Vol.36 (2), p.211-224
• Main Authors: Ellern, Gillian (Jill) D, Buchanan, Heidi E
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Academic libraries; Active learning; Architects; Architecture; Batteries; Case studies; Class size; Classrooms; Collaboration; Cooperative learning; Display devices; Educational technology; Ethernet; Flexibility; Furniture; Higher education; Information literacy; Learning; Librarians; Portable computers; Power management; Screens; Strings; Students; Teaching; User training; Wire; Wireless communications
• ISSN: 0737-8831; 2054-166X
• DOI: 10.1108/LHT-04-2017-0070

Purpose This paper serves as a case study, detailing an academic library’s three-year process of redesigning, implementing, and using a library electronic classroom. The purpose of this paper is to share the challenges and successes of a library’s attempt to create a high-tech space that both accommodates active learning and is entirely flexible and free of wires. The paper provides technical details for implementing features such as wireless screen sharing and offers practical advice for librarians who are creating new teaching and learning spaces at their institutions. Design/methodology/approach This is a descriptive case study, which details the lessons learned in implementing an active learning space that incorporates technology such as wireless display to multiple screens. Findings There are still major challenges in having a truly wire-free classroom including authentication policies, wireless display technology, instructor’s station mobility, and student laptop control. Successes include flexible furniture, battery-power management solutions, and using multiple wireless devices in a single room. Practical implications Practical implications of this paper include recommendations for planning this type of upgrade in a library electronic classroom. Originality/value The unique feature of this case was the effort to combine the mobile features of a flexible learning space with some of the robust technology of a hardwired active learning classroom. This paper features technical details beyond what can be found in the library literature. For example, very little has been written about the issues involved in wirelessly displaying a computer screen to multiple devices in a classroom.