Study spaces at ISEG: Adapting the library for groupwork

This project focuses on the growing importance of cooperative learning and how this needs to be reflected in ISEG’s infrastructures, more specifically in the library. The main objective of this project is to propose an alteration plan of the library’s first floor to turn it into a floor dedicated to group study and cooperative learning. For this purpose, a survey was developed to understand student’s needs and expectations from the library, and then a proposal was made based on the results. The survey results showed that, regarding a groupwork space, there are three aspects to take in consideration: design, utility, and social environment. From neutral colors to a good number of electrical outlets and even privacy and soundproof walls, all these elements were considered very important to students. Finally, the proposal suggests the creation of groupwork booths to allow students to have a private space to work in groups in the library. The elements included in these booths are based on the survey results, and thus reflect students’ preferences.