Relating spatial patterns to people's flows and activities in collective spaces of a university campus

Abstract

This research compares potential movement and permanence configured by space with actual flows and experiences in the Humanistic Sector (Campus I, Universidade Federal da Paraiba, UFPB). The study started from the observation that some spaces of the Humanistic Sector, although with similarly built typologies, are characterized differently, such as the “Happiness square”. Understanding that collective spaces can provide everyday relief and spontaneous encounters between people and that spatial form can facilitate or hinder encounters, spatial patterns of potential movement, encounters and views of spaces between the Humanistic Sector classrooms are compared based on the Social Logic Theory of Space, or Spatial Syntax, framework. These patterns were compared with movement and stationary activities observed in field surveys, mapping flows and peoples’ activities and profiles at different locations. Spaces more central and closer to easier access circulation exhibited diverse uses and more women in contrast with less visible and less integrated spaces, with more introspective and quiet behavior. Results reveal an internal spatial hierarchy and the connection with the campus access characterizing diverse spaces with complementary uses contributing to interactions and relief in academic life. Future investigations can evaluate the possible benefits of these uses in learning.