The first impression: colorful, flexible, innovative and bright. The "Innovation Lab" at the Faculty of Computer Science has officially opened its doors - for modern teaching, student work and hybrid events for up to 36 participants on 120 square meters.
The two former PC rooms at Emil-Figge-Straße 42 (B.E.22 and B.E.23) have been merged into one interactive teaching and learning space. Lars Everding, Vice Dean for Human Resources and Finance, initiated this project and successfully implemented it with the team.
Innovative ideas are created on whiteboards and interactive displays. Content from any device is visible on the large projection screens. Several camera systems and microphones stream the events online if required. And the furniture - it's not just colorful, but above all movable.
"We can completely convert this room within two minutes," says Alparslan Kirman. The research assistant at the Faculty of Computer Science is part of the "Innovation Lab" project team, as are his colleagues Volha Lukin, Rusudan Schulenberg, Fernanda Nunes Trautmann and Kevin Böckenkamp.
"The flexible room concept adapts to the pedagogical requirements," emphasizes Fernanda Nunes Trautmann. The project team, which includes computer scientists as well as experts in didactics and adult education, had already involved teachers in the planning phase.
Whether classic lectures, interdisciplinary group work or project-oriented exchange - in the Innovation Lab, it is possible to switch between different levels of communication. The project team has developed tailor-made learning and working techniques for this purpose.
This important "spatial competence" is taught to future users in training sessions. "Thanks to modern camera technology, the Innovation Lab is also ideally equipped for hybrid and digital teaching," emphasizes Volha Lukin.
Bring your own device
However, there are hardly any computers in the Innovation Lab. A server cabinet in the corner reveals how much technology is used here. "We deliberately opted for a bring-your-own-device concept, especially after discussions with students, and are providing the necessary interfaces for students to use their own devices," explains Kevin Böckenkamp. "At the same time, there will also be loan devices so that everyone can use the room," adds Rusudan Schulenberg.
