Creating a SANCTuary of learning spaces in universities teaching for diversity in use of spaces, both physical and virtual to ensure a best learning and inclusive experience for students

Abstract

The SANCT Model as per Vollmer (2016) suggests that certain elements are necessary for the support of learning in spaces, being – Self-esteem, Autonomy, Normality, Control and moTivation. The SANCT model can be applied to university spaces to ensure a SANCTuary of optimum spaces for users to enjoy. These spaces create a community for students and staff within safe boundaries and the desire is that these boundaries will be permeable to the general community through extended campus initiatives. The SANCT elements must be planned for and sustained in the design of university spaces, both physical and virtual to encourage the enjoyment of space by local users in the form of students, staff and outsider users in the form of community and professional visitors. The people are the most important part of every university and the spaces must meet the unique learning needs of the users who occupy them. The spaces must wrap around the people to keep them physically and emotionally safe with a sense of identity and belonging being encouraged by the distinct entity of university spaces.