Education Context and Learner Profile

 

My learning space ‘swamp’ is part of a library resource centre in a large Independent Public State (IPS) primary school, east of Brisbane, with a school population of approximately 1000 students. Students come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds, with 6% of the population identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (My School, 2018) and 2% of students with English as a second language.  Also present in the school, is a special education program supporting approximately 50 students. The school has an explicit learning agenda, with a clear focus on lifting levels of achievement in literacy, particularly in the area of writing.

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Learning Space

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The learning space is an outdoor library courtyard that is accessible through the main library building. The library is a contemporary building that is approximately 10 years old. Two part-time teacher aides (equivalent to one full-time staff member) manage the library and the building also houses offices for the Head of Curriculum and three Curriculum leaders/coaches.

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Completed VAST Heuristic

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Key Evaluation Findings

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The tour reveals an outdoor space that is currently not meeting student and teacher’s needs, primarily due to a lack of suitable seating and furniture. The imposing fence and covered patio also limit the light to the space at different times of the day, with the location of offices next door also problematic.

 

Design Problem Statement

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Redevelop the currently neglected Library courtyard with new furniture and gardens to create an outdoor space for student collaboration and social connectedness that supports their well-being.

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