A choice of terminals: spatial patterning in computer laboratories
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to examine the spatial patterns of student use of machines in each laboratory to whether there are underlying commonalities.
Design/methodology/approach
The research was carried out by assessing the user behaviour in 16 computer laboratories at a regional university in Australia.
Findings
The study found that computers within easy access to doors are disproportionately more used than computer that are further away, irrespective of other “incentive” such as windows, wall anchoring or security camera positioning.
Practical implications
This paper has implications for any division within a university environment responsible for the spatial positioning of computer in a student laboratory.
Originality/value
Previous research of the use of computer laboratories in schools and universities has focussed on educational issues. None of the studies so far have considered matters of situational territoriality and spatial patterning that govern human behaviour.
Keywords
Citation
Spennemann, D., Cornforth, D. and Atkinson, J. (2007), "A choice of terminals: spatial patterning in computer laboratories", Campus-Wide Information Systems, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 76-96. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650740710742691
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited