Last Spring Quarter, the College of Computing & Informatics (CCI) debuted a new computer lab and collaboration space for CCI student use located in University Crossings. The new computer lab is co-located with the Cyber Learning Center (CLC), combining a general computer lab and a unique tutoring space. This new space ensures that teaching assistants (TA) and computer lab facilities are available for just-in-time assistance.
The creation of the lab was primarily in response to space needs and an increased demand for tutoring, as Computer Science and Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Affairs William Mongan explains.
“We found that students frequently visit their TA, and want to apply the advice they receive right away. This resulted in a very crowded CLC, although students were not constantly engaged with the TAs in the room. By expanding the computer lab space and including the CLC space in the same lab, we see an improved traffic flow and overall capacity in the lab. In addition, the iCommons staff has done a wonderful job setting up a kiosk system to help let specific TAs know when a student is seeking help in their classes.”
The Cyber Learning Center features workstations and laptop plug-in stations, arranged in pods, to encourage collaboration among CCI students. It also offers consulting and other learning resources for students taking computer science classes within the College.
“The new computer lab is organized with small group work and instantaneous support in mind – tables are modular and can be grouped and moved on-demand. iCommons staff have a dedicated office in the new lab to support students, equipment and classrooms in University Crossings,” said Mongan.
The Cyber Learning Center offers many of the same features that the iCommons, located in the Rush Building, provides such as access to computing equipment and free black and white printing for all CCI students. This Center can be accessed 24/7 by CCI students by use of their Drexel student ID.
For more information about CCI facilities,
please click here.