Academic common space or social common space: that is the question. There is no academic common area at this school unless you consider the Exeter room a common academic space. Even then, it is usually loud and full of people so it’s hard to concentrate on what you are trying to accomplish. Since the Exeter Room seems to have multiple functions, we should to figure out how to use the Exeter room more effectively.
Currently, the Exeter room is a quality social space because the windows and all of the computers allow for entertainment when in a big group. A lot of people congregate there; or they meet in the dining hall near the television and ping-pong table. There is no good social common space at this school that is specifically meant for social space either.
A good social space consists of one or more televisions, games like ping-pong or pool, some couches and chairs, and open space. A social common space is supposed to provide relief from academics and athletics while stimulating conversation and group activity; moreover it allows for a temporary cure for boredom.
There are a few solutions to this problem. First of all, we have made an addition to the school that none of the students are exactly sure how that space will be used and how it will function. It would be a good idea to convert that into a social common space. Second, another solution would be to clear another room for social space.
A good academic space consists of books, computers, and tables where students can work. It also has to be well lit and quiet. Usually we call these spaces libraries. Libraries offer all the services above. Libraries also offer help finding books. The Exeter room has the books, computers, tables, and it is well lit. The only problem that it has is that it is very loud. People that are trying to work often have to wear headphones to drown out the other people in the room.
A sensible solution to the noise in the Exeter room would be to make it a silent work area. However, that presents another problem. Where would people go if they wanted to hang out somewhere besides the dining hall? In their rooms? The problem with people’s rooms is, although a lot of people hang out in their rooms, they cannot converse with people of the opposite sex.
No solution is perfect and every solution has its consequences. We need to find a good balance between academic space and social space in the Exeter room. Maybe have it a silent room during school hours. Some how we need a social space, and we need an academic common space.
No comments:
Post a Comment