This space is intended to greatly increase the versatility of the adjoining General Learning Spaces by creating additional space for collaborative group work, the sharing of information technologies and resources.  It enables opportunities for learner self-management and self-direction. Direct access to the Practical Activities Area supports creative, investigative and construction activities. It is configured to support seating plans for 22 students in individual to medium sized groups. The area can also be used for focussed learning sessions for those requiring support.  It is suitable for learning activities that include discussion, reading and storytelling, explicit teaching and demonstrations. Students can work individually or in small groups on research and reflective activities.  Work samples can be displayed and students can rehearse and perform in small groups. 

FURTHER OPPORTUNITIES

This space lends itself to dedicated use as a number of special purpose settings, incorporating an information technology zone and/or a dedicated Key Learning area focus. Different choices of movable furnishings e.g. ottomans, lounge, low tables will support flexible seating plans and use of noticeboards as partitions can be used to create different learning settings. Standing height benches could be used to create alternative settings. A fixed large work bench with a durable surface adjacent to the wet area would provide suitable space for explore, investigate, create, fabricate and construct activities. The inclusion of glass sliding doors between rooms would create ease of flow and greater access between learning spaces. Different arrangement of internal glazing could still provide direct line of sight vision between spaces while providing more wall space for display thus preventing the covering of glazing with notices and work samples.

LEARNING IMPLICATIONS

Given that the space is shared by a number of General Learning Spaces, negotiation of use, fit out and lay out between teachers and students will be required. There is a danger that the space will be used simply for traffic flow unless there is purposeful design of the layout and use of the shared space.  Consideration will need to be given to the acoustic and spatial layout demands of activities being conducted at the same time. In particular consideration will need to be given to the types of resources used in explore, investigate, create, fabricate and construct activities due to the small wet area. Noise interference from the adjacent General Learning Spaces can be a factor if learning processes with different acoustic requirements are operated at the same time.