The Collaboratory, located in room 229 of Burk Hall, is an innovative, computer mediated
classroom equipped with technology that enhances the learning environment.
Outfitted with 20 Pentium-based laptop computers configured around a specially designed conference table, the
Collaboratory provides the most modern classroom environment on campus for students and
teachers to experience real-time collaborative learning with a variety of technology tools.
In the Collaboratory, all of the computers are networked to use the latest GroupSystems meeting enhancement software called ThinkTank. Each person participates in activities designed to capture their ideas, opinions and input anonymously. By creating activities intended to elicit student responses, teachers can use the software to incorporate the students' perspectives, elicit constructive feedback and help students engage in the learning process.
Teachers who use the Collaboratory find that they enhance student participation by facilitating anonymous input from 100% of their class. The room design provides a safe and supportive environment for student interaction and encourages open communication from all participants online or offline.
For additional information regarding the Collaboratory, please contact Deidre Suber at 338-2640 or by email at dsuber [at] sfsu [dot] edu.
