With the start of the spring semester and homework assignments beginning to stack up, the black study box on the second floor of Iowa Hall at Kirkwood Community College is gaining interest for its unique approach to focused learning. The new space aims to meet the growing demand for more private study environments at Kirkwood.
The black study box is an enclosed, minimalist study pod designed for individual use. The box itself is about three feet by four feet. It offers a quiet, private space that stands out from the more open study areas elsewhere on campus. It houses a single chair, and a desk with room for one student. It also has a wall plug-in space for charging purposes.
“It’s perfect for when I need to block out distractions and really concentrate,” said Nathan Carreto, first year horticulture science and landscaping major, who has used the space. “It feels like having my own little room, but still connected to the rest of the college.”
The concept behind the black study box came after discussions with a furniture company that reached out last summer about interest in a private study pod. Erik Ryan, Student Center Coordinator at Kirkwood, explained that the idea was tested on a temporary basis to see if students would utilize it.
“It’s not noise-canceling but it definitely dims the noise. Its quieter compared to our larger spaces, but still out in the open,” Ryan said.
The box has sparked interest. On average, about three students use the space each day, according to Ryan.
However, it’s the more private nature of the box that draws students looking for focus. “The privacy is a huge factor for me,” Carreto explained. “In larger spaces, it’s easy to get distracted by people talking or walking by. In the study box, I’m in my own little world.”
Ryan acknowledged the challenge of balancing different study needs and said he believes the black study box is just one example of how Iowa Hall is evolving to accommodate a variety of learning styles. He also said he understands that every student studies differently. “Iowa Hall is trying to offer a range of options to meet the needs of students,” he said.
Although the study box is currently on a first-come, first-served basis, Ryan said the suggestion of adding a reservation system for private spaces could encourage the use of these spaces.
Ultimately, the black study box reflects an ongoing effort to improve the academic environment at Iowa Hall. “It’s a new spot for students who want something a little quieter, a little more private,” Ryan said.
Categories: Campus News, News
