Research and Learning Commons for university students at Harare Institute of Technology
Funding Area: Critical shared infrastructure / Infraestructura compartida critica
Problem Statement: 18670,Off Dendy Young, Lincoln Green, Belvedere, Harare
Proposed Activities: Activities 1. Resource Collection and Presentation: Collect and curate a comprehensive collection of books, journals, databases, online resources, and multimedia materials relevant to undergraduate studies across disciplines. 2. Space Design and Technology Integration: Create flexible spaces that promote collaborative work, individual study, and group discussions, equipped with necessary furniture, whiteboards, and technology solutions for students to connect and share ideas 3. Research and Learning Support Services: Employ dedicated staff, including subject librarians, research consultants, instructional designers, and technology experts, to provide personalized assistance and guidance to students in their research endeavours. 4. Peer Tutoring and Mentoring: Establish a peer tutoring and mentoring program where experienced undergraduate students can provide academic support, guidance, and mentorship to their peers across various fields of study 5. Community Building and Events: Organize regular academic and social events, such as scholarly forums, guest lectures, workshops, book clubs, and networking sessions, to encourage interaction and collaboration among undergraduate students. Proposed Timeline: These activities will be slotted within the quarters of the academic year with each activity being done in a quarter. (Jan – March) (April to June) (July-September) (Oct-December) Expertise: Mr Macdonald Nhakura (Orcid ID: 0000-0003-3238-4726) is enrolled as a PHD candidate in Library and Information Sciences at Durban University of Technology. He is a holder of a MSc. Degree in Library and Information Sciences, B.A Degree in Media Studies, a National Diploma in Public Relations, an LCCI Diploma in Marketing, a National Diploma in Library and Information Sciences and a Certificate in Counselling. Mr Nhakura is currently serving as the Sub- Librarian of the Harare Institute of Technology. He is also the current President Elect of the Zimbabwe Library Association (ZimLA), an Executive Board Member of the Zimbabwe International Book Fair (ZIBF) Board of Trustees, Whispering Hope Private College Board Member, Amina’s Gift Board Member and the Head Usher at Harare Institute of Technology. Expertise: Mr Ronnie Chabarwa Murahwa/; Solution-Oriented IT Specialist with more than 10 years progressive experience in managing maintaining IT infrastructure, having a proven ability to create and deliver solutions tied to business growth. Skilled problem identifier & trouble-shooter comfortable in managing systems, projects and teams in a range of IT environments & aspiring IT Manager & ICTS Directorate
Openness: The openness of the infrastructure in the research and learning commons proposal refers to the accessibility and inclusivity of the physical space, resources, and services provided. An open infrastructure ensures that all members of the university community, including students, faculty, and staff, have equal opportunity to utilize the facilities and benefit from the resources available. Accessible Physical Space, Flexible Workspaces, Technology Accessibility: Outreach Programs, Community Partnership Initiatives, Open Access Publications and Resource Sharing:
Challenges: While establishing and implementing research and learning commons brings numerous opportunities, there are several challenges that may arise during the process. Financial Constraints , Resistance to Change , Technological Infrastructure Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of technology within the research and learning commons can be challenging, Technical issues, Balancing Accessibility and Capacity: Engaging and Sustaining User Participation ,Staffing and Expertise: Identifying individuals ,Adapting to Changing Needs
Neglectedness: I have never applied for any funding in this regard
Success: Measuring the success of the proposed work on research and learning commons can be done through various indicators and evaluation methods. Success can be measured in terms of both tangible outcomes and intangible impacts. Some key metrics and evaluation methods to consider include: Usage and Engagement, Frequency and duration of usage, User satisfaction, Academic Performance, Increased research output, Accessibility and Inclusivity, Demographic analysis, User satisfaction surveys, Faculty and Staff Engagement, Faculty and staff feedback, Research Output, External recognition: Assess the number of awards, grants, or external acknowledgments received by researchers who have utilized the commons. Community Engagement: Community partnerships: Evaluate the number and quality of collaborations formed between the commons and local schools, organizations, or community groups. Attendance in public events: Measure the number of individuals from the broader community attending lectures, workshops, or exhibitions organized by the commons.
Total Budget: $24400
Budget File: pdf
Affiliations: Zimbabwe library association which i am the incumbent current President
LMIE Carveout: Yes, the project of establishing research and learning commons can indeed fit into the categories led by individuals and organizations working in Low- and Middle-Income Economies (LMIEs). Here's how it aligns with their priorities: Accessible Education: LMIEs often face challenges in providing equitable access to quality education, particularly at the tertiary level. The research and learning commons can help bridge this gap by offering resources, support, and a conducive learning environment for undergraduate students in LMIEs.
Team Skills: Harare
How Did You Hear About This Call: Word of mouth (e.g. conversations and emails from IOI staff, friends, colleagues, etc.) / Boca a boca (por ejemplo, conversaciones y correos electrónicos del personal del IOI, amigos, colegas, etc.)
Submission Number: 121
Loading