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Article
Publication date: 7 September 2018

Kenneth Mølbjerg Jørgensen

The purpose of the paper is to provide a framework for reflecting on how different ways of configuring spaces in higher education (HE) condition the possibilities of learning…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide a framework for reflecting on how different ways of configuring spaces in higher education (HE) condition the possibilities of learning. Second, the purpose is to construct a storytelling approach for the configuration of such spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper’s conceptual purpose is achieved through a theoretical discussion of three concepts: performance, politics and storytelling.

Findings

Learning in HE needs reconsideration in terms of what kinds of learning are made possible through the discursive and material configuration of the spaces of research and teaching. In particular, the focus to some extent should move away from the management and control of learning toward what enables learning.

Practical implications

The literature on organizational learning and the learning organization comprise concepts, methods and tools that play different roles with regard to controlling, shaping and enabling learning. When the focus is on learning in HE, it is important to be aware of the tracks of learning these technologies enable.

Social implications

The interest in managing and controlling learning is often problematic in relation to the potential of HE to produce new and innovative forms of learning.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the term “spaces of performance,” which directs attention toward the material, discursive and relational conditions for learning. It also introduces a space of storytelling as a new principle for learning in HE.

Details

The Learning Organization, vol. 25 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-6474

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 October 2017

Tristan Gerrish, Kirti Ruikar, Malcolm Cook, Mark Johnson and Mark Phillip

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the use of historical building performance data to identify potential issues with the build quality and operation of a building, as a means…

2767

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the use of historical building performance data to identify potential issues with the build quality and operation of a building, as a means of narrowing the scope of in-depth further review.

Design/methodology/approach

The response of a room to the difference between internal and external temperatures is used to demonstrate patterns in thermal response across monitored rooms in a single building, to clearly show where rooms are under-performing in terms of their ability to retain heat during unconditioned hours. This procedure is applied to three buildings of different types, identifying the scope and limitation of this method and indicating areas of building performance deficiency.

Findings

The response of a single space to changing internal and external temperatures can be used to determine whether it responds differently to other monitored buildings. Spaces where thermal bridging and changes in use from design were encountered exhibit noticeably different responses.

Research limitations/implications

Application of this methodology is limited to buildings where temperature monitoring is undertaken both internally for a variety of spaces, and externally, and where knowledge of the uses of monitored spaces is available. Naturally ventilated buildings would be more suitable for analysis using this method.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the understanding of building energy performance from a data-driven perspective, to the knowledge on the disparity between building design intent and reality, and to the use of basic commonly recorded performance metrics for analysis of potentially detrimental building performance issues.

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2007

Ceri Watkins

The aim of this paper is to consider managers' and society's approaches to organisational performance.

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Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to consider managers' and society's approaches to organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilizes an approach informed by Lefebvre's theory of space, and presents a Lefebvrian analysis of organisational performance.

Findings

The analysis in this paper identifies a number of problematic issues within current considerations of organisational performance. The paper makes transparent the domination of the abstract representations of performance, while facilitating an engagement with the aspects of performance this domination neglects. It suggests that through neglecting the everyday lived aspects of performance, in their obsession with abstract “representations of performance”, managers make decisions without a sufficiently clear concept of the effect of those decisions on the organisation.

Research limitations/implications

As an introduction in this paper, to Lefebvrian spatial analysis in the field of organisational performance, the depth of the analysis is rather constrained.

Practical implications

In highlighting the relative neglect of the role of evolved social conventions of tolerable behaviour, or the physical lived experience of the everyday interactions of the workforce in considerations of organisational performance, the paper suggests managers run the risk of their decisions being ineffective. In light of this suggestion, a number of potential areas where Lefebvre's theory may be beneficial in the study and management of organisations are identified.

Originality/value

The paper introduces a Lefebvrian spatial analysis to the field of organisational performance and provides readers with an alternative approach to the study and management of performance in organisations.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 56 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 September 2019

Abiodun Olatunji Abisuga, Cynthia Changxin Wang and Riza Yosia Sunindijo

This paper aims to identify user-centred facilities performance attributes of higher education buildings and how they can be used to evaluate individual learning spaces. These…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to identify user-centred facilities performance attributes of higher education buildings and how they can be used to evaluate individual learning spaces. These attributes are then consolidated for developing a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) framework in this context.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the literature on the POE of higher education buildings is conducted.

Findings

This study identifies 36 facility performance attributes in higher education buildings, which can be categorised into four dimensions: ambient; spatial; technology; and building support and services requirements. These facility performance attributes need to meet user requirements to achieve satisfactory feedback. It is also important to note that user requirements differ from one learning space to another; thus, it is essential to consider the characteristics of individual learning spaces.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed evaluation framework is context-based and may not be suitable to evaluate other types of buildings. It may be further extended and enhanced to meet other facility management evaluation needs.

Practical implications

The POE framework developed in this research can be used to generate facilities management analytic to inform future design and improve existing higher education facilities.

Originality/value

This research has developed a holistic POE framework tool to meet user requirements in higher education buildings.

Article
Publication date: 28 September 2020

Ayse Gul Gemci and Bahar Ferah

This paper aims to discuss the spatial interactions of street music in public spaces. It proposes to clarify why relationship between street music and people in public spaces is…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the spatial interactions of street music in public spaces. It proposes to clarify why relationship between street music and people in public spaces is important and how street music evokes an external stimulus on people.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framework of this paper is based on the triangulation process of Whyte and the qualities of public spaces, forming a relationship between space and people produced from the seminal literature of the paper. Accordingly, a case study based on the qualitative research method was conducted in Istiklal Avenue, where street music performances can be observed for long term. During the field work which spans a period of 12 months, 10 spots of street music performances have been observed and photo–video documentation was collected.

Findings

This paper provides empirical insights on how the triangulation process reflects social interactions in public spaces. This also suggests the triangulated position of street music as an external stimulus relating with the people as actors of daily urban flux.

Research limitations/implications

Regarding to the chosen research approach which is based on deeper understanding, this paper interrelates the interactions of street music and people in public space.

Social implications

This paper includes qualitative research steps of data collection and disaggregates findings with a “Cross Matrix Table” proposed at the end of the study.

Originality/value

The proposed disaggregating “Cross Matrix Table” and case study fulfil an architectural need to research how everyday street art activity can reflect the qualities of public space.

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2005

Mary Lou Downie

Higher education (HE) in the UK has recently suffered financial pressure due to reduced central funding, and the requirement to widen student access. The estate is typically the…

1646

Abstract

Purpose

Higher education (HE) in the UK has recently suffered financial pressure due to reduced central funding, and the requirement to widen student access. The estate is typically the second highest revenue expense and is an obvious target for efficiency gains. Sector‐wide statistics show there are opportunities for improving efficiency and many influential bodies have advocated space charging as a way of achieving them. This paper aims to investigate space performance indicators for evidence that space charging improves space use efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used is a statistical analysis of space performance indicators for space charging and other higher education institution (HEIs).

Findings

Approximately one‐quarter of HEIs in the UK operated space charging in 2000‐2001 but only ten out of 31 space‐related performance indicators for the period 1998‐2001 suggest that increased efficiency results. Scrutiny of the background data shows they predominantly reflect differences in institutional wealth and activities, rather than space use management. Efficiency measures relating space to use provide no evidence of efficiency gains, suggesting that the application of charging as a space management tool is ineffective.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology does not reveal the reasons for the disparity between theory and results of space charging. Qualitative research into the application of charging systems is required to provide an explanation.

Practical implications

The conclusions are important for HE managers who are considering implementing expensive systems to improve space efficiency. The results also shed light on the usefulness of space performance indicators for HE estates.

Originality/value

Although there have been many assertions that space charging will improve space use efficiency in the HE sector, this research provides evidence to the contrary.

Details

Property Management, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-7472

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2014

Chrissie Harrington

The purpose of this paper is to explore the inter-relationship between choreography and pedagogy. It refers specifically to a Participatory Action Research (PAR) project that…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the inter-relationship between choreography and pedagogy. It refers specifically to a Participatory Action Research (PAR) project that dealt with investigations into performance making and the design of a teaching and learning model. Shifts from making performance from a pre-determined starting point to a participatory and interactive process are traced to reveal a “choreographic pedagogy” informed and transformed by the experience of its actors.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper includes a brief explanation of the terms and shared features of choreography and pedagogy, and how PAR facilitated a cyclic generation of new findings that drove the research forward. The research question is tackled through concepts, practices and tasks within the four cycles of research, each year with new participants, questions and expanding contexts.

Findings

The experience of the research participants reveals unexpected and “unfolding phenomena” that open up spaces for imagining, creating and interpreting, as a “choreographic pedagogy” in action.

Research limitations/implications

The research might appear to be limited to the areas of performance and teaching and learning, although it could provide a model for other subjects, especially for those that engage with creative processes.

Practical implications

The research is a “practice as research” model and has implications for research in education as a practice of knowledge exploration and generation.

Originality/value

It is original and has the potential to inform the ways in which educators explore and expand their disciplines through teaching and learning investigations.

Details

International Journal for Lesson and Learning Studies, vol. 3 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-8253

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 March 2016

Aradhana Gandhi and Ravi Shankar

The purpose of this paper is to use strategic resource management (SRM) model and data envelopment analysis (DEA) for benchmarking Indian retailers. The study ascertains, how a…

1108

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use strategic resource management (SRM) model and data envelopment analysis (DEA) for benchmarking Indian retailers. The study ascertains, how a retailer can benchmark its performance at company level, global level, store level and finally at merchandise category level using diverse strategies for inventory, space and people.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper aims to use SRM model, for evaluating and comparing the performance of two generalized retailers Shoppers Stop and Trent. These two generalized retailers are benchmarked with another best-in-class retailer, Wal-Mart using the SRM model. The benchmarking exercise brings out improvement directions for the Indian retailers. In the next part of the study, economic efficiencies of 11 generalized retailers are ascertained using DEA model. Finally, a study is conducted to understand, how SRM model can be used as a planning tool for deciding alternative inventory, space and people strategies at store level as well as at merchandise category level.

Findings

Based on the data for the year 2011-2012, Trent’s performance is comparatively better than Shoppers Stop. The paper offers suggestion to improve its performance. Next, it was found that the performance of Wal-Mart is superior to the two Indian retailers. The study offers direction to the two retailers to devise appropriate strategies to improve their performance. The study further ascertains the relative efficiencies of 11 generalized retailers in the country. Finally, an illustration of how a retailer can use the SRM model as a tool for planning alternative strategy for inventory, space and people in a particular merchandise category is offered using data from a retail firm. The study has used “Jeans” and “Toys” as two categories to demonstrate this concept.

Practical implications

The examples considered in this paper can be used by practicing retailers to plan and benchmark their performance.

Originality/value

The study proposes a method, by which retailers can examine ways to plan and improve their operations and profitability by using the SRM and DEA model. The study is therefore relevant to practicing retailers as well as academicians.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 23 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 October 2011

Robert Kronenburg

This paper seeks to explore the design of popular music performance space, focusing particularly on recent developments that are changing the form and operation of permanent…

1334

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the design of popular music performance space, focusing particularly on recent developments that are changing the form and operation of permanent venues and travelling stages. Its objective is to analyse the typology of existing venues but also to chart the emergence of new and distinct building forms in response to changing artist, promoter and audience demands.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates the factors that determine the architecture of live performance space, based on the research project's detailed examination of specific examples that range from small music clubs to large and complex stadium‐sized buildings. The paper introduces the research themes that have shaped the author's book Live Architecture: Popular Music Venues, Stages and Arenas, which will be published in 2011.

Findings

The paper proposes a new categorisation of buildings as; adopted, adapted and dedicated music performance environments, and explores the significance of mobile facilities as architecture in their own right, but also as a modifier of place and space. It identifies factors that are changing the scale and operation of performance venues and articulates the implications for new venues.

Originality/value

This paper presents a continuing research project that is examining for the first time popular music performance building design as a distinct architectural genre. It proposes for the first time a building typology in order to increase our understanding of how the most successful spaces have been created, and how future ones might safeguard live music's power and immediacy for its audiences.

Details

Arts Marketing: An International Journal, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-2084

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 10 November 2021

Younghee Noh

This study surveyed users and librarians who have been transforming libraries into a complex cultural space by reflecting the trends of the times, investigated and analyzed…

3233

Abstract

Purpose

This study surveyed users and librarians who have been transforming libraries into a complex cultural space by reflecting the trends of the times, investigated and analyzed various status of complex cultural spaces, including perceptional differences among different groups and made an attempt to present a direction for the diversification of library's role.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes the difference between the level of importance and the level of satisfaction for the operational style and use of complex cultural spaces, current status and use of programs and services of libraries as well as the perceptual difference between librarians and users. In order to do so, opinions were collected from librarians who operate complex cultural spaces and users who use the spaces.

Findings

First, the study compared to see if there is a difference between the preferred complex cultural space of libraries and the type of complex cultural space actually provided by libraries. Libraries do not only have data spaces but also made education space, performance space, exhibition space, rest space, community space and experience space available for users. Users were found to more frequently use exhibition space, performance space, rest space and education space among other spaces whereas the utilization rate of community space and experience space was identified to be significantly low. Second, this study also compared to see if there is a difference between users' preference for the type of programs operated by library's complex cultural spaces and the actual programs offered. The comparison of perceived differences between librarians who are the operators of the programs and users who participate in the programs is to compare and improve the consistency of supply and demand. As a result, it was found that the supply and demand for educational programs were most consistent, which would lead to higher participation rate and enhanced operational performance and satisfaction with libraries. Lastly, investigations were carried out to see whether there is a difference in the levels of importance and satisfaction for the operation of complex cultural spaces and perceptional difference between libraries and users. Comprehensively analyzing the results, in the first quadrant of “Keep the Good Work,” librarians showed a higher level of perception compared to users. In particular, librarians were found to have a different perception towards programs (contents) compared to users. Based on such results, a systematic program must be considered when planning for library programs in order to increase uses' satisfaction. In addition, in the second quadrant of “Concentrate Here,” with a high importance and low satisfaction, users showed a high level of importance for programs (contents) whereas libraries identified accessibility as a more important factor, indicating a big perceptional difference between users and librarians.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the differences between the opinions of operators who create complex cultural spaces and operate programs in the spaces and the opinions of users who participate in the spaces and programs, and it was found that no other studies in Korea and overseas have done the same yet. In addition, it carries a significant meaning in that it does not only investigate the perceptions towards importance and satisfaction, but also suggests improvement directions based on the perceptional differences between users and librarians. In other words, librarians who implement policies at actual sites seem to be able to reflect the results of this study and decide the operation direction of the library.

Originality/value

Users also participate in various services and programs that library's complex cultural spaces offer and enjoy their cultural life. It carries a significant meaning in that the study evaluates the importance-satisfaction of factors affecting the use of complex cultural spaces of libraries by examining perceptions of those users who actually have the experience of using library's complex cultural spaces when the number of libraries attempting to transform into a multicultural space increases. The study made an attempt to enrich the knowledge and understanding of users' visit/use of libraries, suggest improvement directions and factors to focus. Continuous efforts and additional studies must be made in order to vitalize library's complex cultural spaces and secure the position of a cultural facility as well as a communication space located at the heart of regional society.

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