Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC): Innovative Classrooms for Active Learning

The Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC) at Purdue University stands as a pioneering example of integrating cutting-edge classroom designs to foster active learning methodologies. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with a diverse range of classroom types, each meticulously designed to enhance student engagement and collaborative learning experiences. WALC’s innovative spaces move beyond traditional lecture halls, providing dynamic environments that cater to various pedagogical approaches and learning styles.

BoilerUp Classrooms

BoilerUp classrooms within the Wilmeth Active Learning Center are designed to immerse students in a collaborative and technologically rich learning environment. These fan-shaped rooms feature fixed, wedge-shaped tables accommodating six students each, ensuring everyone has convenient access to power. The triple projection screens guarantee optimal visibility of dual projected images from any point in the room. Furthermore, each table is equipped with personal portable whiteboards and comfortable swivel chairs, promoting both individual work and group interaction.

1. WALC 1018: A large BoilerUp classroom with 180 seats, featuring tiered seating, fixed wedge tables for six, and dual projection capabilities.
2. WALC 1132: Another spacious BoilerUp classroom, accommodating 108 students with fixed wedge tables for six, tiered seating, and dual projection.

Eye2Eye Classrooms

Eye2Eye classrooms in the Wilmeth Active Learning Center prioritize face-to-face interaction and team-based learning. Designed for teams of four, these classrooms feature built-in long benching tables and swivel task chairs, encouraging direct communication and collaboration. Dual projection systems at both ends of the classroom ensure clear visibility for all students, and tabletop power access supports the use of personal laptops for seamless integration of technology into learning activities.

1. WALC B066: An Eye2Eye classroom with a capacity of 84 seats, equipped with fixed benching tables and dual projection at both ends of the room, facilitating focused team discussions.

Flexible Classrooms

The Flexible classrooms at the Wilmeth Active Learning Center are designed for adaptability, supporting a wide spectrum of teaching methodologies. These rooms can be rapidly reconfigured to suit various layouts, including face-forward, face-to-face, horseshoe, or conference table arrangements. Furnishing options include mobile large-form tablet arm chairs, and 2 or 3-person trapezoidal tables paired with mobile chairs, which can be combined to create hexagonal tables for larger groups. Flexible classrooms are equipped with dual image support through projection screens or large flat panel displays, enhancing visual learning and presentation capabilities.

1. WALC 2007: A flexible classroom with 90 seats, featuring mobile tablet chairs and dual projection for dynamic learning configurations.
2. WALC 2087: A larger flexible classroom accommodating 126 students with mobile tablet chairs and dual projection, ideal for larger classes requiring adaptable setups.
3. WALC 2121: A 40-seat flexible classroom equipped with trapezoid tables for reconfigurable layouts and dual flat panel displays, including a touchscreen for interactive learning.
4. WALC 2127: A 45-seat flexible classroom with mobile tablet chairs and advanced display technology featuring three flat panels and a touchscreen, enhancing multimedia learning experiences.
5. WALC 3084: Another 40-seat flexible classroom with trapezoid tables, reconfigurable design, and dual flat panel displays with a touchscreen for interactive lessons.
6. WALC 3087: A 126-seat flexible classroom with mobile tablet chairs and dual projection, providing a large adaptable space for diverse teaching methods.
7. WALC 3121: Similar to WALC 2121, this 40-seat flexible classroom offers trapezoid tables, reconfigurable layouts, and dual flat panel displays with touchscreen functionality.
8. WALC 3127: Mirroring WALC 2127, this 45-seat flexible classroom features mobile tablet chairs, three flat panels, and a touchscreen for advanced visual learning.
9. WALC 3132: A 40-seat flexible classroom with trapezoid tables, reconfigurable setup, and dual flat panel displays with a touchscreen, supporting varied instructional approaches.
10. WALC 3138: A 50-seat flexible classroom utilizing trapezoid tables, reconfigurable design, and dual projection, offering versatility for different learning activities.
11. WALC 3148: Another 40-seat flexible classroom with trapezoid tables, reconfigurable configuration, and dual flat panel displays with a touchscreen, promoting interactive education.
12. WALC 3154: A 50-seat flexible classroom featuring trapezoid tables, reconfigurable layout, and dual projection, providing adaptable space for various teaching styles.

Scale-up Classrooms

Scale-up classrooms at the Wilmeth Active Learning Center, inspired by the SCALE-UP (Student-Centered Active Learning Environment with Upside-down Pedagogies) model, foster collaborative learning in larger groups. These classrooms feature seven-foot diameter tables designed for 9-person teams, facilitating extensive group discussions or smaller teams of three working with laptops. Purdue’s implementation utilizes tables composed of three 120° sections, either connected around a central technology hub or separated for flexible reconfiguration, enhancing collaborative project work and group problem-solving.

1. WALC B091: A Scale-up classroom with 72 seats, equipped with ganged 9-person tables and dual projection at both ends, fostering large group interaction.
2. WALC B093: Similar to WALC B091, this Scale-up classroom also accommodates 72 students with ganged 9-person tables and dual projection at both ends.
3. WALC 1087: A larger Scale-up classroom with 108 seats, featuring ganged 9-person tables and dual projection at both ends, suitable for larger classes using the SCALE-UP model.
4. WALC 1121: A high-tech Scale-up classroom accommodating 72 students with ganged 9-person tables, high-tech dual projection at both ends, and an impressive array of 8 flat panel displays.
5. WALC 2124: A 54-seat high-tech Scale-up classroom with ganged 9-person tables and 6 flat panel displays, providing advanced visual learning tools.
6. WALC 3122: Another 54-seat Scale-up classroom, equipped with ganged 9-person tables and 6 flat panel displays, supporting technology-enhanced collaborative learning.

6Round Classrooms

6Round classrooms in the Wilmeth Active Learning Center are tailored to facilitate smaller group discussions and collaborative problem-solving among six-person teams. These rooms offer seating options including built-in 60” round tables or pairs of trapezoidal tables that can be arranged into hexagons. Dual projection systems at both ends of the classrooms ensure visual clarity for all participants, and floor boxes or tabletop convenience outlets provide easy access to power for devices, supporting technology-integrated discussions.

1. WALC B058: A 6Round classroom accommodating 102 students with ganged trapezoid tables for six and dual projection at both ends, ideal for medium-sized classes focused on group work.
2. WALC B074: Another 6Round classroom with 102 seats, featuring fixed 60” diameter tables for six and dual projection at both ends, designed for focused group discussions.
3. WALC 2051: A 72-seat 6Round classroom equipped with ganged trapezoid tables for six and dual projection at both ends, providing a versatile space for collaborative activities.

Theater/Performance Classroom

The Theater/Performance Classroom at the Wilmeth Active Learning Center offers a unique, intimate theater-style setting designed to support both traditional presentations and performance-based learning activities. This classroom features comfortable upholstered seating with self-storing tablets and supports dual projected images or widescreen projection for films. A small ADA-compliant performance area is equipped with user-friendly theatrical lighting and curtains, and the adjacent WALC receiving room can serve as a ‘Green Room’, making it ideal for drama, presentations, and film screenings.

1. WALC 1055: A theater/performance classroom with 329 seats, featuring a performance area, theatre-style seating, and dual and wide-format projection capabilities, suitable for large lectures, performances, and film screenings.

Turn2Team Classrooms

Turn2Team classrooms within the Wilmeth Active Learning Center promote a dynamic learning environment where students can easily transition between individual work and team collaboration. These classrooms are furnished with pairs of wide and narrow strip-tables, each with tabletop power access. Comfortable swivel chairs allow students to face forward for presentations or exams and then easily turn to collaborate in teams. Students at the narrower front tables can swivel and move back to join teams with students at the wider rear ‘teaming table’, facilitating seamless shifts between lecture and group work.

1. WALC 2088: A Turn2Team classroom with 66 seats, equipped with fixed tables and dual projection, designed for flexible transitions between individual and team activities.
2. WALC 3090: Another Turn2Team classroom accommodating 60 students with fixed tables and dual projection, providing a versatile space for varied learning modes.

The Wilmeth Active Learning Center’s diverse classroom designs underscore Purdue University’s commitment to innovative education. By providing spaces that actively encourage student participation and collaboration, WALC enhances the learning experience and prepares students for future success in a collaborative world.