Learning Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q. When is the Commons open for use?
  A. In principle, the Commons is open at the same time as the main university building. Opening hours are subject to change in accordance with unforeseen developments such as a state of emergency declaration. Check the latest announcements on campus or via email.
  Weekdays: 6:30 to 20:00
  Saturdays: 6:30 to 18:00
  Sundays, national holidays and university vacation period: Closed
• Q. When is the Academic Support Counter open? What services does it provide?
  A. The Academic Support Counter in Commons 302 accepts paper-based applications for use of equipment and the Learning Commons, and gives advice about services and seminars organized by the Support Office for Learning Community.
  
  It also offers face-to-face and online consultations on using Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, managing bibliographies and citations, and using computers and the Internet. To use any of these services, submit a Lukaco Desk Reservation Form at least three working days before the date of use.
  
  Weekdays: 9:30 to 15:30
  Sundays, national holidays and university vacation period: Not available
• Q. How is the Commons zoned?
  A. Refer to the Use of the Learning Commons page.
  - 301 and 310 are large rooms available for exclusive use. When not reserved they are freely available to individuals and groups. In these rooms you are allowed to make noise to a reasonable degree, including talking, doing group work and online classes, and eating.
  - 302 is a large room that cannot be reserved for exclusive use. You can use any available seats. In these rooms you are allowed to make noise to a reasonable degree, including talking, doing group work and online classes, and eating.
  - 303 is a private study space that is not available for exclusive use. You can use any available seats. Please refrain from engaging in noisy activities such as talking, doing group work and online classes, and eating.
  - 304-309 are private rooms that can be used exclusively by small groups for a maximum of four hours per day. Reservations should be made via the Web Nadeshiko system. In these rooms you are allowed to make noise to a reasonable degree, including talking, doing group work and online classes, and eating.

   
• Q. How do I reserve rooms 301 or 310 for a large group?
  A. Commons 301 holds 15 to 30 people, and Commons 310 holds 5 to 10 people. These rooms are designed for meetings and classes. Submit an Application for Use of the Learning Commons to the Support Office for Learning Community at least three working days prior to the date of use. (You can email the application to: solc@slcn.ac.jp)
  Note: Not available for classes or events from November 1 through February 28.
• Q. How do I reserve a private room?
  A. Commons 304-309 can be used by one to four people.
  Place your reservation directly via Web Nadeshiko after confirming availability on Facility/Classroom Reservation Status > University Main Building.
  Web Nadeshiko > Facility/Classroom Reservation Status
  Note: Reservations are limited to a maximum of 4 hours per day per account. If a reserved room is not occupied 20 minutes after the start time, all subsequent reservations for that day will be canceled.
• Q. Are there any rules for using the Learning Commons?

  A. In accordance with the new Living with COVID-19 regime, the following basic rules have been introduced for the Learning Commons.
  - Do not enter if you have a fever over 37°C or are feeling unwell.
  - Sanitize your hands before entering.
  - Wear a mask at all times in the Commons and do not talk when eating or drinking.
  - Keep a distance of at least 2 meters from one another.
  - Do not sit in seats marked as unavailable. Do not sit next to or facing one another.
  - Do not close windows or doors that have been opened to provide ventilation.
  
  The rules for eating and drinking are as follows.
  - No drinks in paper cups, cans or other containers that are not sealed with lids (including cups with a straw pushed through the lid, as commonly provided by coffee shops), or paper cups brought from the lounge.
  - No highly fragrant foods (such as curry), foods that are noisy to eat (such as chips), or soups/noodles.
  - No talking while eating or drinking.
  Please be considerate of those who are studying around you. Food and drink items that are difficult to clean off common areas such as chair seats, sofas and carpets are prohibited.

• Q. Can I view online classes and seminars in the Learning Commons?

  A. You can use the university LAN in the Commons. You will need to register first and bring your own computer or tablet. Avoid using room 303 for online classes and seminars.
  
  When participating in online classes in a large room, wear headphones, earphones or equivalent so that you do not disturb others. Headphones and earphones also help to prevent computer feedback when other students are viewing the same class nearby. You can speak normally during a class.

• Q. How do I reserve equipment?
  A. Equipment available for use in the Learning Commons can be checked out at the Academic Support Counter. Submit an Application Form for Equipment Use at least three working days prior to the date of use. (You can email the application to: solc@slcn.ac.jp )
• Q. How do I use the books displayed in 303, corridors, and rooms?

  A. 303 has a collection of materials to help with writing papers and reports and creating presentation materials (both in Japanese and English). Materials cannot be removed from 303 and must be used within the room only.
  
  TED publications are displayed in the corridor inside the Commons. They can be checked out in the same way as library materials.
  
  The National Examinations Preparation Corner bookshelf is located in the corridor inside the Commons. These publications cannot be taken out on loan and must be used within the Commons area. Go to the national examinations section of the library if you wish to borrow publications.
  
  Other books and materials are also on display in 302. Some items can be borrowed while others cannot be removed from the Commons. Ask the staff for details.