Library Spaces and the Academic Plan
One of the strategies in the Academic Plan is to “enhance the Library’s role as a provider of exceptional learning spaces and innovative services for teaching, learning, research and collaboration.”
The Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Medical Library provides TMU Libraries with new spaces for collaboration. The Active Learning Lab is exactly for this purpose. Working with academic partners, the Library delivers innovative programming in these rooms that encourage productive multidisciplinary interactions which enhances out-of-class learning experiences.
The Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Medical Library spaces prioritize student access to academic study space and library programming, in alignment with the Academic Plan’ and our Libraries’ Strategic Plan. Library workshops & seminars and other Library programming are held in this space.
Requests to book the Active Learning Lab for programming which encourages out-of-class learning experiences may be approved by the Library on a case by case basis. TMU learners, staff or faculty may contact medlibrary@torontomu.ca with booking inquiries.
Other purposes, such as meetings, are generally not approved.*
The individual submitting the booking is responsible for ensuring adherence to these Terms & Conditions. Failure to do so may result in the loss of booking privileges.
Active Learning Lab Terms & Conditions
Room Access & Security
Just before the start of your session, the person whose name appears on the booking should go to the Circulation Desk and ask for access to the room. You are responsible for the room and its contents during your booking. Leaving the room unattended with the door ajar is a liability.
Cleanliness & Room Layout
The room is generally set up in In the Round (diagram 3), however the ALL has 4 potential configurations – see image below. As part of your booking please indicate how many people will be attending your event and which configuration is needed. The library will ensure a ticket is submitted to ensure the set up is complete in advance of your event. Facilities prefer 10 days notice for room set up. We ask that you remove any waste from the room after your booking and leave the room in the same condition you found it.
Furniture cannot be moved out of or into the room during your booking.
Technology
If you wish to use the projection equipment, please read and follow the instructions posted in the room. You have an option to bring your own laptop or signout a laptop from the library circulation desk. If bringing your own laptop, you need to ensure your device is compatible with HDMI and USB-C input. The cables from the console are short and the device must be near the console.
The glass walls of the Active Learning Lab can be adjusted for privacy using the light switch on the wall to the right of the front entrance.
Please note: The glass walls are not to be used as a dry erase whiteboard.
In the event of a technology failure, please speak to circulation staff.
Noise
The Active Learning Lab is located in the Library which is a study space for students. To minimize disruption, keep the noise level reasonable and do not prop open the door. As well, please be mindful of noise when entering or departing the space.
Smudging
The active learning lab does not have the HVAC ability or the Employee Health and Safety requirements needed to be a space for smudging. Given the confined area (reduced air volume due to the low-ceiling) and soft, natural surfaces of the active learning space, it would also become a potential fire hazard – the walls that are not glass are all covered in wool and the ceiling is covered in technology and wool.
Future Bookings
Availability and priority will be assessed each time a booking is requested.
FAQ:
Q: I am a faculty member, can I book the Active Learning Lab for my regularly scheduled class or seminar?
A: The Active Learning Lab prioritizes student academic study, collaborative learning, and engagement in the Library’s programming as an environment for students’ out-of-class learning experiences. The room is not available for booking regularly scheduled classes or seminars.
Q: I am a student, can I book the Active Learning Lab for my meeting or study group?
A: Students are encouraged to use our online booking system to book one of the two group study rooms in the Library. For larger groups looking for space for organized study events and/or workshops, the Active Learning Lab can be requested.
Q: Can I use the Active Learning Lab for catered workshops or events?
A: Given the room’s size, catered events are not feasible.
Q: What is the capacity of the Active Learning Lab ?
A: The Active Learning Lab has four potential configurations, allowing anywhere from 16 to 46 seats. To comply with fire codes and regulations, booking requests that exceed the room capacities listed above will be declined. Additional tables and seating are not available.
Q: Can I book the Active Learning Lab outside the operating hours of the Library?
A: No, bookings must take place while the medical library is open.
Q: What technology is available in the room?
A: This room is equipped with a projection system, computer, and audio capabilities.
Q: Who do I contact if I have more questions about the Active Learning Lab?
A: If you have specific questions about the Active Learning Lab, please email medlibrary@torontomu.ca.
*During construction, requests for other booking purposes may be considered on an individual basis and per room availability and considering impact on students.