Coming in September - West Wing Collaborative Cluster

During the summer, Computing Services introduced changes to several computing clusters with the plan to redefine how clusters are used for working and learning. The new West Wing Collaborative Cluster continues to undergo dramatic changes as we pilot many new technologies and features. Through the use of varied seating arrangements, the cluster will become a more open space for students to work individually or in groups.

The biggest change is a departure from traditional workstation arrangements. Although there are two rows of Linux computers in the center of the room, the perimeter is an entirely different story. The room is organized with several new furniture layouts that aim to accommodate a variety of student work styles.

The West Wing Collaborative Cluster changes include the addition of a “stop-in” area; this is a kiosk-like station immediately past the entrance. This area is equipped with several Mac, Windows and Linux computers, as well as a printer and flatbed scanners. The stop-in area is great for those who need quick access to printing, scanning, checking email, or fact-checking.

Behind the stop-in area is a lounge with comfortable seating and small tables that are ideal for working on laptops and holding discussion meetings. The booth section is a similar environment also designed to bring people together. A shared table top encourages group work, and data and power connections facilitate laptop use. Meanwhile, the whiteboard wallpaper will allow people to literally draw on the walls.

Whiteboard space is featured prominently throughout the room to make it easier for students to write and share ideas. A movable interactive electronic whiteboard in the lounge will enable students to easily download whiteboard notes onto a flash drive. Students can also share their work with other users by projecting their laptops or the cluster computers onto the rotating LCD display in the center of the room. This display ensures that people seated throughout the new West Wing cluster can still be involved with what is going on.

Students often gain valuable feedback from working with their peers. In the cross-platform hub, users build beneficial partnerships with their colleagues while accessing all three operating systems: Mac, Windows and Linux.  The pair collaboration section, an area with two lounge chairs arranged together, is another great space for peer work. Students with laptops can utilize this space thanks to power and data connections via a power tower in that area.

The West Wing Collaborative Cluster is still undergoing its finishing touches, but it will be open sometime in September. Since the cluster is a student-centered space, it will not be available for reservations, thus allowing all students extended availability. The renovated West Wing Collaborative cluster will be open 24 hours a day.