Sociological survey of students΄ opinion about their school environment

Abstract

 

This paper presents the theoretical background, the content and the methodology of a research carried out in May 2009 in a Drama high school (4th GENIKO LYKEIO DRAMAS) regarding environmental conditions in school spaces, students’ preferences thereof and the importance of the use of materials that are both environmentally friendly and not detrimental to human health. There are references to the notion of school space and its pedagogical value, to the parameters of the relevant environmental conditions as well as to the relation between the school space and its materials and sustainable development. The research focuses on the views and preferences of the students of the aforesaid high school – as a case study – and the first results and conclusions of the research are: 

Sports and music dominate the students’ most popular extra- curriculum activities in contrast with the anticipated answer – watching TV, which came in last at their list of preferences. 

The aesthetic and functional evaluation of the school building and the surrounding space received a moderate evaluation, as did the sense of safety in school. Students expressed a strong demand for comfortable furniture followed by a desire for pleasant decoration. 

If an architect and a landscape architect were to take the students’ preferences into consideration, they would construct modern school complexes. Students prefer the use of stone, wood and the presence of water, incorporated in a modern building style. 

Students are especially put off by the presence of wall vandalisms while graffiti is considered (mainly by girls) as a form of art and a pleasant sight. The assignment of space on school walls devoted to graffiti creations should be seriously considered. 

The students appear to be environmentally aware and demonstrate a will for significant participation in environmentally – friendly school solutions.

 

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