End-user preferences in school design: A qualitative study based on student perspective

The pedagogical aspect of school design is so significant that it cannot be ignored, especially in terms of meeting today's changing needs and expectations. Pupils interest-one of the main and end-users of schools-should be decisive in the school design. However, pupils opinions as a stakeholder, on the design process have not been adequately taken into consideration yet. In this regard, this study was conducted in a rural (village) and urban (central) middle school with the participation of a total of 20 students. In this qualitative study, card sorting and semi-structured individual interview techniques were used incrementally. Schools with different designs were examined for card sorting technique and the concept cards were finalized based on the evaluation of the experts in the field of architecture. The data obtained were analyzed by content analysis method and design elements preferred by students in school design were determined. In-depth data were obtained during the interview and then themed in the context of students preferences regarding design elements. School buildings’ being not very high-rise and having a large and green garden are the primary elements determining the preferences of the students in exterior designs. For classroom design, elements such as brightness (daylight) and spaciousness, density (the number of students), flexibility, and functionality were highlighted. The width of corridors, the sitting areas and stairs designed in different geometrical structures were the determining factors in the students preferences.