With inspiration in mind, ETSU starts Innovation Commons
East Tennessee State University has unveiled a new space designed to ignite creativity and inspiration: the Innovation Commons, located on the second floor of the Sherrod Library. This digital media and maker hub offers students, faculty and staff access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology with no prior experience required.
Whether you’re interested in creating podcasts, developing 3D models or exploring virtual reality, Innovation Commons provides the tools and expertise to bring ideas to life.
“Our goal with Innovation Commons is to foster creativity and support interdisciplinary projects,” said David Atkins, dean of the Sherrod Library. “We’ve designed this space to be accessible for everyone at ETSU, whether they are seasoned creators or just starting out. The possibilities here are endless.”
Innovation Commons features three main areas that encourage hands-on learning and exploration:
Makerspace 212
This area is a hub for physical creation. Users can experiment with 3D printing and scanning, laser engraving, vinyl-cutting, sewing and even button-making. Makerspace 212 is perfect for anyone looking to explore their artistic side, prototype new ideas or create tangible items with cutting-edge tools.
Studio 205
For those interested in digital media, Studio 205 is equipped with six high-end workstations loaded with the latest Adobe and Maya software, providing everything needed for graphic design, video editing and animation. Additionally, the professional sound booth offers a quiet space for recording podcasts, voiceovers or other audio projects, making this studio a go-to destination for digital content creators.
Virtual Reality
Innovation Commons also offers immersive learning opportunities through virtual reality technologies. Transfr VR provides career training simulations, helping users develop practical skills in a range of professions. Organon 3D, an interactive anatomy program, allows users to explore the human body in a way that traditional textbooks cannot provide. These tools offer a hands-on approach to learning, making complex concepts more engaging and accessible.
Innovation Commons welcomes ETSU instructors from all academic programs to bring their classes for collaborative, technology-driven activities. The space offers endless possibilities for creating unique, engaging learning experiences tailored to different disciplines.
Learn more or schedule a visit at https://etsu.libwizard.com/f/innovation-instruction.
Makers Week
Makers Week is running this week through Friday, Nov. 15, with a variety of beginner-friendly workshops. Get the latest here.
East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.
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