Spatial Cultures and Connections
© Zahra Zoleykhaei
© Zahra Zoleykhaei
Projektinformationen
eingereicht von
Zahra Zoleykhaei
Betreuende Professur
Professor Martin Hesselmeier
Betreuende
M.F.A. Matthew Lloyd
Studiengang:
MediaArchitecture (Master of Science (M.Sc.))
Projektbeschreibung
This thesis explores learning spaces at our University from a student's perspective, considering how physical environments impact learning experiences. Moving away from traditional spaces, which often prioritise uniformity and neglect diverse student needs, the research argues that by fostering new “spatial cultures” through participatory readaptation of spaces, learning environments can become more inclusive, flexible, and better support innovative pedagogies.
Using a multidisciplinary approach that connects socio-spatial theory, participatory design, and learning sciences, the study combines qualitative interviews with practical interventions. Eight students and two teachers from different faculties and cultural backgrounds were interviewed, with a focus on Flinta students whose needs have historically been ignored in academic space design.
Three practical experiments were conducted: creative spatial workshops, a co-creation session, and a spatial intervention in the university library “The Comfort Zone”. Findings show that many learning spaces, including our university library, feel restrictive and do not support diverse learning styles or personal needs, particularly for Flinta, international students, and those with chronic conditions.
The thesis proposes student-centred initiatives for future spatial transformation and calls for dynamic spatial cultures that nurture diversity and enable students to take an active role in shaping their learning environments.