STRUCTURAL IMPEDIMENTS TO LEARNING: INVESTIGATING LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS INSIDE THE BAHEN CENTRE

Abstract

Abstract – This paper investigates the physical features that affect the learning process of students within the lecture halls in the Bahen centre. The impacts of any drawbacks or shortcomings due to structural design of the Bahen building on students’ learning qualities are considered. Primary research including physical measurements and opinion surveys of students and professors comprise the basis of discussion. Results indicate that a number of lecture halls do not meet the University's classroom design standards. Tutorial rooms fare better by design-standards but a lack of electrical access ignores the growing dependency on computers in the classrooms. The authors discuss a set of identified issues – from obstructed viewing angles to damaged accessibility equipment, and list recommendations to address learning challenges. Implementing some of the recommendation will require trivial effort, while future educational structures for others may be considered.