Study landscapes / learning centres
A learning centre is the combination of a physical learning environment, a (core) library, ICT and educational support. Due to the flexible and modular quality various activities can take place simultaneously (group work, individual study, presentation trainings, hands-on sessions, etc.) without interfering each other.
A concept usually mentioned together with a 'learning centre' is the 'study landscape'. Originally a 'learning centre' was meant as a space where students could work independently on tasks and assignments, whereas in a 'study landscape' these students could receive coaching and support from instructors and other tutors. Nowadays both concepts are often used as synonyms, and so a learning centre can also provide for a regular presence of tutors.
In the coming years the University Library will provide three modern study landscapes for the student population: one in the city centre for the Humanities and Social Sciences Group, one in the Heverlee campus for the Science, Engineering and Technology Group and one at Gasthuisberg for the Biomedical Sciences Group.
At the moment the AGORA-project is the furthest advanced project, which was started in 2009 and aims at the realization of the Study landscape for the Humanities and Social Sciences. This study landscape will be located in the former Pharmaceutical Institute (E.Van Evenstraat, next to Alma 2). KU Leuven is turning this monument to a modern learning centre for her students, with spaces for group work, a flexible open learning space, interactive multimedia, etc. All in an innovative framework with refreshing furniture, a snack bar, a lounge space and even an learning garden. KU Leuven is the first Belgian university to realize an informal learning environment at such a scale. Doors will open in the Spring of 2013.
For the students of Biomedical Sciences and Science, Engineering and Technology there are currently learning centres integrated in the existing libraries. Plans for the realization of new study landscapes are in different stages of preparation.