ENHANCING SPACE MULTI-FUNCTIONALITY THROUGH FLEXIBILITY STRATEGIES IN THE DESIGN OF FACULTY OF MEDICINE, YOBE STATE UNIVERSITY
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Date
2018-09-26
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Ahmadu Bello University Zaria
Abstract
This study investigated ways of enhancing space multi-functionality through flexibility
strategies in the design of Faculty of Medicine. This is because current changes in medical
schools due to contemporary technology and curriculum has brought about spatial needs
that stand in contrast to the priorities of the earlier system, posing more demands for
designing logically reconfigurable spaces. Three case study areas were purposively
sampled to carry-out the study. Data were obtained through a visual survey checklist on
flexibility attributes of the case study areas as well as an interview for staff/students and
stakeholders to identify unique challenges both in the building structural system as well as
trends and etiquettes of medical practice; the validity of the results was further tested
through space-syntax analysis, using the depth map software. Findings revealed that the
global shift in the educational system of schools from teacher-centred to student-centred
approach to learning, leading to the shift from a general purpose to problem-based learning
approach in medical schools, has affected the character of spaces in medical schools. These
new approaches came with the need to reconcile multi-disciplinary basic science learning
processes and changes in technology that stand in contrast to the earlier priorities of the
educational system. While these factors have architecturally helped to reduce the amount
of exclusive single-purpose spaces they place more demands for interactive spaces and
logically designing reconfigurable space and fixtures over short and long-term uses. These
needs were not adequately reflected in the cases under study as evidence continue to be
more pronounced whenever attempts are made for periodic changes and expansion within
their spaces due to changes in medical technological advancement and contemporary space
needs