School Space as Catalyst for Learning: Insights from Malaysian Primary School Pupils

Nik Farhanah Nik Azhari; Aidatul Fadzlin Bakri; Nurulhusna Qamaruz Zaman; Cathe Desiree S. Nadal

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v11i35.7611

Authors

Nik Farhanah Nik Azhari Centre of Studies for Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
Aidatul Fadzlin Bakri Centre of Studies for Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
Nurulhusna Qamaruz Zaman Centre of Studies for Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
Cathe Desiree S. Nadal College of Architecture, University of the Philippines, Diliman Quezon City, 1101, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v11i35.7611

Keywords:

School Space, Learning, Primary Schools, Pupils

Abstract

Schools are designed for teaching and learning, yet their spatial layouts are often standardized to administrative needs, overlooking user experience and pupils’ perspectives. This study examines how Malaysian primary pupils perceive and interpret their school environment through a design charrette conducted across three primary schools in Puncak Alam, Selangor, involving 124 participants. Pupils collaboratively brainstormed, photographed, and redesigned school spaces to express their preferences. Content analysis revealed two main themes: categories of space and affordance of school spaces for learning, highlighting the need for schools to offer a wider range of affordances to enhance pupils’ learning experiences.

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