Public Space

Topic:

materials

This week we will discuss space. Who and what is public space for? What obligations to the public do public and private organisations have when designing space? How should our thoughts around space change in the context of online life?

Minecraft Video Game Used To Design Public Space In More Than 25 Developing Countries – Ali Morris, dezeen.com [article, approx 5 mins, includes 3 mins video]
Innovation Brief: Post-Pandemic Public Space – Catapult [article, 12 mins]
Why Are Cities Full Of Uncomfortable Benches? – Vox [video, 4 mins]
The Quiet Disappearance Of Britain’s Public Libraries – Adele Walton, Tribune [article, 12 mins]
How Universities Can Use Property To Work More With Their Local Communities And Businesses – Mat Oakley, Higher Education Policy Institute [article, 5 mins]
Selling Space – Britain’s Public Spaces Going Private – Channel 4 News [video, 7 mins]

Facilitation Notes

Discussion Questions

What is the function of a public space?
Are there benefits to “public” spaces being privately owned?
How can public spaces be made more accessible?
Can universities make public spaces that serve the wider community?
What innovative methods can be used to reinvent public spaces?

Resource Personalisation

You could include materials on discusses of space (public and otherwise) in your institution, and examples of public spaces owned/operated by your university.

Topic:

Public Space

materials

Facilitation Notes

Culture Club.