Usage of Informal Learning Spaces among Students of Academic Units with vs. without Dedicated Buildings on Campus

Abstract

This paper examines Informal Learning Spaces (ILS) usage among students with versus without a dedicated building in a university. A mixed method approach was adopted. The library is the most visited ILS, while convenience and locales of colleges determines student traffic behavior and ILS usage. For students with dedicated building that has ILS, such as a resource center, this helps divert traffic to the library. Despite 60% of students favour a decentralized ILS development, a two-prong strategy for is recommended to satisfy the diverse needs of students. Food can be an important ILS driver to keep students on campus.