Office of Information Technology Opens the Alcove, a New Concept in Computer Labs

Setting off in a new direction, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) recently opened The Alcove, a computing space where students can work together on team projects in a comfortable, roomy environment using the latest equipment.

The Alcove, part of the College Avenue Computing Center, is open to faculty, staff, and students. The facility has already become a big hit.

"I love the big Mac screens, the large TVs, and the comfy couches," said Elise Renoe, a junior majoring in environmental planning and design, working on a project at the lab. Senior Steven Moschetti, a philosophy major with a minor in planning and public policy, said the Alcove brings an entirely new atmosphere to the computer lab. “There was definitely a need for this."

For years, OIT has run large computer centers tightly packed with equipment to accommodate the many students who visit on a daily basis. But times have changed. Most students now own computers, residence halls have internet access, and smart phones are popular. The staff running the computer centers wondered about the future. Was this the end of an era, or was there a way to reinvigorate the centers?

Vice President of Information Technology Don Smith and his OIT colleagues believed that the computer lab could still be an exciting, lively, and vital part of the academic community but knew that the model would have to change. So, after attending Labman conferences and visiting labs at other schools, OIT made the decision to travel down a new road, “one where students can access computers in comfort and collaborate on projects in learning spaces designed to facilitate group discussion,” Smith said.

Melissa Malana Fullowan, the computer center’s manager, took the lead in designing the new space in collaboration with faculty, students, and technical experts. The Alcove has the appropriate technology to support group projects – iMac computers at each table fully equipped with more than 30 software programs – while also being spacious and attractive. Features include an open design, versatile lighting, plants, collaborative work tables, lounge chairs, a couch, wireless access, 46-inch high-definition LCD screens, RU-tv, table-top power outlet, and a private meeting room which fits eight people comfortably. It is equipped with an interactive, computerized whiteboard.

Faculty also has access to a variety of tools that enable them to teach in new and exciting ways. As part of the design process, the Classroom Renovation Committee, led by Carla Yanni, assistant vice president for undergraduate academic affairs, was invited to review plans and offer suggestions. This committee, charged with the redesign of classrooms around Rutgers, includes a diverse group of insightful faculty who understand instructional needs, Smith said.

At most times, when there are no reservations, groups of students can just show up, pick a comfortable location, and work together on a project. Like other computer labs, the Alcove is open late many nights – some nights until 3 a.m. to accommodate students’ schedules. (Check computer lab schedule here )

The Alcove also makes a great wireless lounge, available to anyone with a laptop who just wants a comfortable place to work. Those with a laptop get the added advantage of being able to print to the nearby bank of printers in the main lab.

Rutgers may see more learning spaces like the Alcove. “Assuming the community continues to support these efforts, OIT is likely to continue to transform other labs as opportunities to do so present themselves,” Smith said.

For more information about the Alcove, click here.. To submit comments and suggestions email feedback@computerlabs.rutgers.edu