Law embraces new space

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Tags: law, winter-2012

The new learning space in the UQ Law Library

Generations of UQ law alumni would have to look twice at a newly opened learning space in the iconic Forgan Smith Building.

The $1.06 million Student Learning Centre takes pride of place on the ground floor of the UQ Law Library, which was previously home to bookshelves and printers.

It is the latest in a series of informal learning spaces that have been built across The University of Queensland since 2005.

Opening the state-of-the-art space in February, Vice-Chancellor Professor Debbie Terry said the University was committed to providing informal and flexible work areas designed to enhance peer-to-peer learning, and student interaction and collaboration.

“For those of us who were students last century, these spaces are a radical departure from the familiar lecture theatre/tutorial room model and very different from the libraries where staff said ‘shush’ and student snacks were contraband,” Professor Terry said.

The new centre, which is open 24 hours a day, was partly funded by the University’s Enhanced Student Charge Program.

The transformation of the former law library space by Queensland architects Cocoon Design includes the installation of retro-style ottoman seating, informal study pods with laptop connection and 46” IPTV screens, and 15 computer workstations.

In tandem with a radical departure from traditional library rules and regulations, Professor Terry said it was hoped the new surroundings would contribute to “more centred, healthy, people-focused lawyers and leaders”.

Among the changes is the installation of new viewing windows, improved seating and advanced audio-visual technology in the Sir Harry Gibbs Moot Court.

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