Inquiry Facilitates Reading and Comprehension of Informational Text

Abstract

School libraries that serve as quiet study areas or book repositories are no longer serving learners in the K-12 school environment. Library learning commons provide a unique environment for students to create, play, and learn. This literature review explores the role of the library learning commons in K-12th grade schools and the influences of the learning commons on 21st century learning. Research regarding the creation of a learning commons, learning within the commons, and creativity and play in the learning commons will also be examined. In addition, this review looks at the role of technology and the virtual learning commons in enhancing learning. The final section of this literature review examines case studies of learning commons and illustrates the effects of learning commons on schools and learning.