“MAKE WAY FOR EMOTIONS!” PHYSICAL AND VIRTUAL SPACES AS CATALYSTS OF EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCES

Abstract

Within the realm of architecture, Kahn’s conceptualisation of educational spaces envisioning them as beginning, probably, “with a man under a tree, and around him the listeners to the words of his mind” (1969 in Hubert, 1992, p. 37), captures the profound emotional essence that educational spaces should evoke. This vision emphasises the creation of an inclusive environment characterised by mutual trust, respect, and honesty, thus creating a protective atmosphere that empowers learners to recognise, manage and express a wide spectrum of emotions. Literature on affective system designs highlights the benefits of physical attributes within environments that are deliberately planned to elicit diverse emotional responses. This study explores how strategically capitalising the affordances of both physical and virtual spaces can create a nurturing atmosphere conducive to the development of social-emotional competence, ultimately enhancing the holistic well-being of those who dwell within.