Frequently Asked Questions

 Q: What is the Idea Garden?

A: The Idea Garden is a place for students to be creative, to explore, and to collaborate. It's an emerging tech space, fully equipped to give students organic experiences with immersive technologies. It's where you connect with the community, learn from local tech leaders, and gain exposure to innovative ideas. The Idea Garden serves as platform for student success, giving the confidence that anything is possible.

 

Q: Who can use the Idea Garden?

A: The Idea Garden is available to all students, regardless of school or major. We also welcome faculty and staff into the space.

 

Q: When is the Idea Garden open?

A: The Idea Garden's schedule changes per semester based on the needs of the students, and the student employees. It is best to check the home page for updated semester hours.

 

Q: What can I do in the Idea Garden?

A: The Idea Garden offers a wide variety of technology, tools, and areas to utilize for your educational uses, such as:

• A general study space for students
• 3D printers
• Multiple XR headsets
• iPads with Pencil technology
• Touch-screen tablets
• IQ Wall/eight-panel touch screen monitor  
• Two ideation/study rooms

 

Q: Can I 3D print at the Idea Garden?

A: Yes! The Idea Garden staff will teach you how exactly to 3D print. The staff can assist you in learning how to model a simple object. Be sure to read our policies on 3D printing.

 

Q: Do I have to reserve the XR equipment to use it?

A: With laxing COVID-19 rules and regulations the Idea Garden strives to maintain a clean and inviting space to use XR. That being said, reservations are no longer required for individual student use. Faculty and Staff wanting to implement XR should still contact the Idea Garden staff. 

 

Q: What software does the Idea Garden have?

A: Our complete software list can be found here! New software has the ability to be installed with requests.

 

Q: How does the IQ wall work?

A: The IQ wall works like using any other computer, with the added bonus of being a huge screen! With the IQ Wall, you can display presentations, explore the Internet, or share your laptop screen much easier for situations such as group work.

 

Q: What sort of collaborative technology is in the Idea Garden?

A: The Idea Garden offers several technologies that can be used to collaborate with others, such as:

• Digital whiteboards
  • A quick and easy way to write up math problems or ideas. You can even e-mail yourself the screen afterwards to save and access your work!
• Traditional whiteboards
  • Feel free to write questions or comments you have, and other students may have your answers! Markers and erasers are provided.

Q: Is the Idea Garden a quiet lab?

A: No. The Idea Garden is an active learning environment. While it does not get loud in the Idea Garden, we do not require silence.

 

Q: Can I bring food in the Idea Garden?

A: With proper etiquette, Yes. While maintaining a clean space is part of the Idea Garden's objectives, the Idea Garden staff are not maids. 

 

Q: Where is the Idea Garden located?

A: Hine Hall, IP106. The Idea Garden has a glass front entrance.

Q: Do I need a reservation to use the Idea Garden?

A: All equipment operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. We no longer do equipment reservations of any kind.