Developing a Neuroarchitecture-based User Centered Design for Elementary Schools in Tehran

Abstract

Neuroarchitecture research investigates how environmental design affects the nervous system using quantitative methods. However, for user-centered design, qualitative research is equally important to actively involve users in the design process. This research aims to bridge this gap by extracting principles for user-centered design in elementary schools, emphasizing student involvement. The study utilized card-sorting and semi-structured interviews, followed by quantitative content analysis. The research involved 60 girls and 60 boys elementary school students in Tehran. The findings indicate that girl students prefer wood texture and circular forms in colorful environments, while boy students prefer square forms, neutral colors, and spacious areas. Furthermore, the results reveal that essential design elements including window features, compound forms, semi-open spaces, playgrounds, and cleanliness, crucial from students’ perspectives, were overlooked in neuroarchitecture research. This study emphasizes the significance of combining qualitative methods with neuroarchitecture research to develop user-centered school designs that consider students’ preferences and needs.

Keywords

• User-centered design
• Elementary schools
• User experience
• Neuroarchitecture