| Title |
Proposing Affordance-Oriented Spatial Design Guidelines for Elementary School Libraries |
| Authors |
한청용(Han, Qing Rong) ; 이경선(Lee, Kyung Sun) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2025.41.7.123 |
| Keywords |
Learning space; Elementary school; School library; Affordance; Design guideline; Delphi method |
| Abstract |
This study aims to develop a design guideline for elementary school libraries by applying the concept of affordance. As contemporary
educational paradigms emphasize creativity, collaboration, and self-directed learning, school libraries need to shift from their traditional roles
of merely storing, browsing and lending, and providing access to information toward affordance-based environments that naturally encourage
learners' exploration and interaction. To achieve this, the study analyzed existing school library guidelines and utilized behavioral observation
and Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) data from previous research to examine students’ spatial usage patterns. Additionally, the Delphi
method was employed to validate the proposed guidelines and refine their key elements. A two-phase Delphi study was conducted with a
panel of 15 experts specializing in school library design and management. In the initial phase, experts identified the limitations of existing
guidelines and restructured spatial elements to more effectively incorporate affordance-Oriented design principles. In the subsequent phase, the
validity of the proposed elements was evaluated using a Content Validity Ratio (CVR) analysis, which resulted in the refinement and
finalization of 93 design guideline items. The findings highlight the need for flexible spatial arrangements that promote student engagement
and interaction, as well as diverse reading spaces, such as chair-seating and floor-seating reading areas, bookshelf-integrated seating, stair,
alcove, agit, and window-side reading zone. Furthermore, strategic bookshelf arrangements and thoughtfully designed furniture layouts were
highlighted as essential for improving accessibility and supporting a variety of learning activities. The affordance-oriented design guidelines for
elementary school libraries proposed in this study are expected to effectively transform libraries into environments that naturally promote
learners' exploration, active engagement, and collaborative participation. |