Informal learning spaces
Informal learning spaces are everywhere. They include any space across campus – apart from classrooms and labs – where students learn, gather, or connect. You might learn on a bench with a professor after class; studying alone in a library carrel; standing around the coffee bar in the cafeteria; gathering with friends in a group study room; or by logging onto one of 200 computers in a computer lab. The learning that happens in these spaces is increasingly recognized as an essential part of the educational experience.
The majority of informal learning spaces are in open areas, and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis; there is no need to make a booking. However, Irving K. Barber has group study rooms available for booking. Various libraries across campus also have group study areas.
- Student? Read about Informal Learning Spaces at UBC (pdf) or find them with our map. We also have recommendations from other organizations at the bottom of this page.
- Faculty or staff? See current ILS projects or find out how to submit a project proposal.
Other ILS resources
We've compiled a list of websites where other groups have made their own recommendations for where to study, relax, or even nap on campus.
| Resource | Web page | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Centre for Arts Student Advising | Places on campus to study | |
| Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) | The Centre for Student Involvement | |
| Chinese Varsity Club blog | First Year Survival Series: Study spaces | Student-recommended spaces |
| Faculty of Applied Science (Engineering) | Study space for students | Space available to Engineering students exclusively |
| Faculty of Science | Study spaces and computer labs | |
| Global Lounge | Dr. Simon K. Y. Lee Global Lounge and Resource Centre | See also the Global Lounge blog. |
| Irving K. Barber Learning Centre | Study space | |
| Learning Commons | Study spaces | |
| UBC Libraries | Computer & study support facilities | |
| UBC Library | Room Booking System | |
| UBC Hillel House | Hillel House student lounge | |
| UBC Insiders | Places to nap | Student-recommended spaces |
Have a link to add to the list? Email emily.wight@ubc.ca.
