The Judy and Robert H. Rawson, Jr. Learning Commons is an open, technologically advanced space that encourages collaborative learning. The 6,500-square foot Commons is housed on the second floor of the CSU College of Law Library. Features of the innovative space include a large gathering area with SMART monitor technology for delivering annotated talks, a café, study rooms with monitors and file sharing capacities, and “pods” wherein students can gather for informal discussions and brainstorming. Several pods are equipped with whiteboard tabletops on which students can quickly record their thoughts and ideas, and then capture a photo for future use. Technology throughout the space is designed so that students can share information with each other from their personal devices. The group interaction is beneficial to law students who will likely work on teams or need to collaborate with other attorneys when they enter the profession.
Innovative programming, including classes, guest speakers and many informal meetings and activities, are hosted in the space, giving students, faculty, administrators and staff opportunities to interact in a natural setting. Technology is in place to record students in mock trials and practice interviews, allowing alumni coaches and the Office of Career Planning to offer interactive feedback.
Overlooking the Cleveland skyline, the modern and colorful common area was designed by Bostwick Design Partnership and the CSU Architect’s Office and features scenic city photography captured by Judy Rawson.