Renovated Language Resource Center Features Mobile, Interactive Workspaces
Renovated Language Resource Center
Features Mobile, Interactive Workspaces
by James Wright '13
8/24/11
The renovation of Swarthmore's Language Resource Center (LRC), located on the third floor of Kohlberg Hall, is nearing completion. Director Michael Jones says outdated consoles, furniture have been exchanged for mobile desks and laptops in order to foster a more dynamic and interactive workspace conducive to increasing the functionality of the Center and its social character. The LRC is designed to enhance the studies of those studying foreign language, literature, and culture at the College.
"The last lab was designed around audio-cassette consoles, which have been outdated for a few years, and fixed furniture," says Jones, who has been with Swarthmore since 1996. "Our goal is to create a community of language learners in a semi-social space where they can gather and explore their shared area of study, a sort of studio learning and teaching space where they control the character of the room. Also, we've added windows to the hallway wall and to our offices so the room feels more open and connected."
Additionally, although the room will have a more noticeably social character, Jones took special care to ensure there will be private space for private studying needs. In addition to featuring the 12 portable carrels, the renovated LRC will maintain its current group room and feature an extendable paper wall that can be used to isolate desks. Email and printing stations have also been added to the room.
"It was important in the design process to keep focused on the various needs of those using the LRC," explains Jones. "Film and Media Studies courses will also have more a presence here this year, so we had to keep that in mind as well. Whether you're a student or teacher, using the space for courses, workshops, creative projects, or studying, the LRC will provide a dynamic learning space for your needs."
