The Mendoza College of Business recently unveiled its newest addition to the College, the Giovanini Commons. Not a traditional study space, the Commons serve as a place where students and professors can share in participative learning.
The idea for the Commons came from suggestions voiced by students and instructors on the need for non-traditional learning space.
"Dean [Carolyn] Woo had heard comments on the need for a space where there could be breakout sessions and a place for groups of students to study that was open and everything was moveable," said Matthew Fulcher, facility manager for the Commons.
The Commons provide that needed environment.
Included in the Commons is a spacious area called "the arcade," which provides general seating, open throughout the day for students to use when studying. There are also three rooms containing approximately 35 wooden desks, which can be reserved by professors looking for an available place to take students.
"The faculty has the option of reserving the rooms when they may feel limited in the traditional classes," Fulcher stated.
Two of the rooms can also be opened to form a large area holding a capacity of 70 people.
The Commons officially opened to students on Tuesday night. Students can gather in the rooms for group projects or study, as long as the rooms are not already reserved for classes.
Student reaction to the addition, Fulcher said, has been positive.
"Students have loved it," said Fulcher. "Not only is it something different; it's someplace where they can get more out of their classes."
