The Learning Gateway: opening the doors to a new generation of learners at St Martin’s College, Carlisle campus

The college’s academic strategy aims to support tutors and learners to develop more independent learning approaches, including flexible forms of learning and teaching via a blended learning model. This strategy recognises that formal teaching space may not necessarily be the best way to attract, retain and support student achievement, or to support a variety of learning styles. In response to this challenge, the Learning Gateway (LG) at the Carlisle campus was conceived, designed and built as a catalyst for change, to further support the college’s flexible and distributed learning aspirations. The college is currently working towards achieving taught degree awarding powers, university title and the formation of a new University for Cumbria, from 1 August 2007. The Learning Gateway is managed by Learning and Information Services (LIS), a converged service offering library, IT, media and learning technology services to the college. LIS has had a major role in conceiving and developing the space and this article explains how this was achieved.