Taking live online classes? Check out our on-campus private study pods
Two new individual pods are available for HFC students to use when meeting for their live (synchronous, or "Live without the Drive") online classes. Both pods are in the Media Center on the second floor of the Eshleman Library (Building B on the main campus).
“These pods give students spaces on campus to attend their live online classes. It allows them to have a spot where they’re not disturbed and they’re not disturbing others,” said Director of the Library Dr. Kate Harger. “This is an emerging need we’re seeing, because it’s now quite common for students to have a class schedule that blends online classes with face-to-face classes.”
The two pods were designed by Orangebox, a subsidiary of Steelcase, which is headquartered in Grand Rapids. Harger described the two pods as a private study stall and listed the amenities they provide:
- A small tabletop
- A plug outlet
- An upholstered bench seat
- Internal lighting
- Internal filtration system
- Sound-absorbing panels to reduce noise
Soundproof mini-work stations
“They’re like a luxurious phone booth,” joked Harger. “They’re soundproof. The person inside can’t hear what’s going on outside. At the same time, those on the outside can’t hear what’s going on inside. It’s like a refrigerator seal when you close the door; it locks in sound.” For safety reasons, the pods are transparent on two sides and cannot be locked while in use.
No food or drinks are allowed in the pods, which can only fit one person. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students just need to show their class schedule in order to use the pods.
“So far, these are the only pods on campus,” said Harger. She notes that more pods might be added if demand for synchronous online classes continues to grow.
For questions or more information, contact the Eshleman Library at 313-845-9606 or library@hfcc.edu.
