According to manager Bonnie Lipton-Bos, the physical space has been specifically redesigned to promote interaction and collaboration in a welcoming environment. Whiteboards and roundtable sessions will support a variety of study groups, while comfortable seating areas facilitate peer tutoring and English conversation practice. In addition, a new Virtual Learning Commons will provide students with access to resources, live chat, discussion and webinars.
The Learning Commons provides support for student success in four core areas:
• Learning Skills - provides students with opportunities to discover their learning styles and to develop time management, textbook reading, memory and exam preparation strategies.
• Peer Services - includes tutoring, supported learning groups and English Conversation Partners, a program for students hoping to enhance their conversation skills and learn more about Canadian culture.
• Math - a service for students hoping to build their math skills and enhance their confidence. Research conducted at Conestoga shows that students who attend math drop-in sessions within the first month of studies have significantly higher grades at the end of term than those who delay seeking support.
• Writing - provides support with all aspects of writing, including grammar skills, style tips and documentation of sources.
With the exception of one-on-one tutoring, which is provided at a nominal cost, all Learning Commons services are provided free of charge to full- and part-time students. Approximately 170 student leaders are hired each year to assist in the delivery of services.
For more information, or to access the Virtual Learning Commons, visit www.conestogac.on.ca/learningcommons