Research exploring reasons for using the learning commons in Japan.

Nagai, A (Akiyuki)¹, Sato, J (Junya)¹, Yoneya, S (Sakura)¹, Nakamura, K (Kazuhiko)^1
1Hokusei Gakuen University

 

Submission type

Poster only

Scheduled

Hallway, 22-07-2016, 16:00 - 17:00

Keywords

learning commons, learning environment, academic education

Summary

This study aimed to clarify students’ reasons for using the learning commons. As learning commons have only been recently introduced in universities in Japan, previous findings have not provided a full discussion of any improvements needed. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a helpful perspective on why university students use the learning commons. Students’ reasons for using the learning commons were investigated by administering a voluntary questionnaire to 135 undergraduate students in 2016, and 189 undergraduate students in 2017. The questionnaire comprised multiple-choice responses indicating the reasons for using the learning commons and invited open-ended responses for any other reasons. Study results indicated that the reasons for using the facility were divided into the following three categories. First, the rules for using the learning commons are not strict. Second, the facility operators offer appointments, for example, to use to a personal computer. Third, university students can study in the right atmosphere in the learning commons. Based on the above results, we discussed which elements are required in a learning commons.

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