AFFORDING STUDENTS’ WORK-ABILITY IN CAMPUS PUBLIC SPACES

Abstract

This study addresses the increasing prevalence of informal learning activities and
the corresponding demand for public places within academic environments that
effectively afford the work-ability function. The research specifically investigates
how students at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Surabaya, utilize various
public places—originally not intended as workspaces—to support their academic
tasks. Focusing on six locations (Canteen, Mosque, Plaza, Library (office), and
Dormitory Hall), the study explores the phenomenon of students affording work
related activities in unconventional settings. The research employs qualitative
observation methods, dismantling the theory of affordance through three analytical
lenses: Architectural Structure, User Interpretation, and Behavior Response. These
components allow for an in-depth understanding of how spatial conditions
contribute to user adaptability. Data collected from on-site observations were
further analyzed using the Sorensen Similarity Coefficient, generating a similarity
index within the range of >0 to ≤1. An index value above 0.500 is considered
indicative of a significant link between specific architectural elements and affording
work-ability. Findings reveal that students afford work-ability through: (1) the
adaptation of multipurpose architectural structures, (2) the effective use of
expansive floor areas with open layouts, (3) engagement with accessible and user
friendly environments that enable flexible use, and (4) reliance on adequate shading
systems as part of the enclosure elements. These insights contribute to the evolving
discourse on responsive campus design, emphasizing the need for spatial
adaptability that reflects actual user behavior beyond predefined functional
intentions.