Browsing by Author "Pekkala, Antti"

Purpose of this thesis is to outline decisions made designing the physical learning environment of Koulu school -concept, and further develop its elements for humanitarian work and disaster relief. It also seeks ways to take advantage of local materials and craftsmanship. Previous studies have shown that physical learning environment can improve learning results, serve to direct towards more interactive learning methods and increase overall well-being. Engaging local communities in school’s day-to-day operations develops life skills and helps normalize everyday life in difficult circumstances. Thesis was implemented as survey, which was targeted at Koulu school team members. Survey collects tacit knowledge that has accumulated within the team and structures this know-how into practical solutions to further develop Koulu school -concept. Survey was conducted online using Helsinki university’s eLomake -service and six responses were received. Data was analyzed qualitatively using theory-driven content analysis, with physical elements of Koulu school’s learning environment as analytical framework. A short action research was conducted at Za’atr refugee camp to complement the survey. According to respondents the best elements of learning environment were shade cloth and wall of blackboards. These created comfortable atmosphere and allowed for flexible room layouts. Floor cushions were considered adaptable and promoting social equality. Respondents also suggested that physical elements of learning environment should be further developed more reliable, considering difficult and often primitive circumstances of humanitarian relief work. Thesis also concludes that Koulu school’s physical learning environment, as well as processes and instructions should be developed towards craft methods. Using local materials and craftsmanship engages local communities to the school and helps making processes more flexible and robust. In order to support this, elements of learning environment should be simplified, and instructions be developed in order to meet the needs of humanitarian work.