Library Re-imagined, Transformed Into The Didsbury Learning Commons
A big change is taking place at the Upper School which includes a new space and a new name. Over the summer, the Upper School’s Kirkwood Library underwent an “extreme makeover” and was transformed into a state-of-the-art Learning Commons. The renovation took place thanks to an anonymous donor who requested the venue be named in honor of long-time Assistant Head for Academics Ken Didsbury. The facility will officially open on November 2, 2018 during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The Didsbury Learning Commons is a multi-purpose facility where students can work collaboratively, have the tools and space to build classroom projects, find additional teaching support in all subject areas and utilize emerging technologies to enhance that learning.
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The Didsbury Learning Commons is a multi-purpose facility where students can work collaboratively, have the tools and space to build classroom projects, find additional teaching support in all subject areas and utilize emerging technologies to enhance that learning.
“Marrying renovated facilities and purposeful faculty/student interaction, the Learning Commons introduces an area where the learning process, featuring state-of-the-art technology, a comprehensive collection of digital academic resources, and an array of thoughtfully designed learning spaces,” said Head of Upper School Fletcher Carr.
The Learning Commons features interactive work spaces including a “glass bubble,” virtual reality lab and learning cafe. The bubble is a collaborative area where students can work on projects and brainstorm ideas by writing on the glass walls while the virtual reality lab uses cutting-edge software that presents lessons in an immersive 3D environment. The learning cafe is an area where students can grab coffee or a healthy snack in an informal setting.
“When I think about this re-imagined venue, I picture a Google Office-like workspace where our students will become inspired with innovation and creativity to bolster what they are learning in the classroom,” said Chief Development Officer Juan Carlos Fanjul. This project is part of "Leaps and Bounds," the capital fundraising campaign for The Benjamin School.
In addition, The Learning Commons has a variety of unique features including a designated graphics and design space that includes computers with a variety of programs to support the development of print and digital media using InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator.
“I wanted a series of stations that would allow kids to do desktop publishing, image manipulation and high end graphics,” said Assistant Head For Academics Ken Didsbury. “These tools will allow students to create and produce classroom projects on the spot,” he added.
Didsbury said the goal of The Learning Commons is varied. For some students who are struggling, it may serve as a learning lab or center where they can seek one-on-one faculty support. For others, it will provide a space for collaborative learning and project-based design outside the classroom. All students will enjoy a variety of structural spaces with ergonomic seating where they can work both independently and collaboratively.
“Libraries have become learning spaces and collaborative spaces - that’s what a learning commons is. We’re teaching kids a methodology for thinking, working and making and are committed to the belief that making is connected intimately with learning,” Didsbury said.
Parents are cordially invited to attend a dedication ceremony for the Learning Commons on Friday, November 2nd from 8:15-9:15 a.m.
Parents are cordially invited to attend a dedication ceremony for the Learning Commons on Friday, November 2nd from 8:15-9:15 a.m.
Main Address & Lower/Middle School
11000 Ellison Wilson RoadNorth Palm Beach, FL 33408
Ph: 561.626.3747
A premier PK3 - Grade 12 independent, coeducational day school with campuses in North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens. Since 1960, The Benjamin School has provided a challenging college preparatory education to a diverse student body in a structured, nurturing community environment.