Research
In an increasingly complex and fast moving information age, it is vital to give students the tools to research well, write clearly, and present the results of their thinking in all forms of media. The Pepperdine University Libraries have embarked on an ambitious project that brings together all the tools students need to succeed in these ways: The Academic Center for Excellence (ACE).
ACE, housed in Payson Library, provides a single location for academic support, including assistance in research, writing, speech, presentation, and media production, as well as subject tutoring. It is designed to be both high-tech and high-touch. The setting is a comfortable and flexible space for students to engage in learning. This space also supports a peer-to-peer teaching and learning model, offers skills workshops, and is available to students when they want it most, late at night.
Watch this brief introduction to ACE services:
There are six key components of ACE:
1. The Research Services Desk
The first stage in the genesis of a student project is usually research. The desk will be staffed by librarians and Library Ambassadors during peak hours. The mission of Research Services is to engage users in their research pursuits. Stop by the iPoint on the first floor of the library. The hours are:
Monday - Thursday: 10 am - 8 pm
Friday: 10 am - 6 pm
Saturday: 10 am - 5pm
Sunday: 12 pm - 8 pm
2. Writing and e-Publishing Support
The existing Writing Center is now housed in ACE. This program is supported by the Director of the Writing Center and a cohort of student tutors. Click here for hours and to make an appointment.
3. Speech Lab
The Speech Lab, part of the Communication Division of Seaver College, is also being integrated into ACE. Most undergraduates are required to record a speech, which upperclass and graduate student tutors then view and offer critiques. Click here to book a 30 minute session.
4. Media Suite
The library has partnered with the Center for Entertainment, Media & Culture to develop a high-tech media editing and production lab within ACE. Workshops and tutoring in audio/video production will also be available. Click here to book an ACE Media Lab Machine for 4 hours.
5. Tutoring
ACE will provide collaborative tutoring spaces for all of the functions mentioned above. These spaces may also be available for use by any academic department at Seaver College that wishes to provide specialized tutoring help. More information coming soon!
6. E-Scholarship
The Library has recently implemented an e-publishing platform for University scholarship, and will offer specialized instruction in e-publishing and writing for publication.
Want to see how we transformed the space? Check out the before and after video.
To learn more about ACE, please contact Mary Ann Naumann at maryann.naumann@pepperdine.edu or at 310.506.7413.
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