UNDERGRADUATES' PERCEPTION AND BEHAVIOUR TOWARDS CAMPUS SPACES

Abstract

Recognising the importance of a good campus space, this dissertation aims to investigate the usage patterns and satisfaction level of the undergraduates, as well as to identify the needs and expectations of the undergraduates of the campus space. The findings from the study can provide invaluable information for future campus planning and improvements to the current campus spaces as well. The forum, which is the largest campus space in NUS, was the site chosen for the studies. Two forms of research were undertaken; a survey research and a four days observation research. The observation research was done to investigate the level and patterns of activities in the forum. The findings revealed that the forum was under-utilised and did not meet the needs and expectation of the undergraduates. The accessibility of a campus space is rated as the most important factor for its usage, in comparison to other factors such as comfort, activities and social interaction. The most frequent passing through activity that was observed was between the main entrance and the lift that leads to the central library, while conversations and studying were the two most frequent stationary activities. In enhancing one's experience of campus spaces, the undergraduates rated the qualities of 'sense of place', 'diversity of activities' and 'safety' as the important factors to be considered when planning of improving a campus space.