Our Term 3 2023 Student Communications Intern, Tamara, surveyed 83 students about what makes a good study space. Read on to discover what other students look for in a good study space - you might even discover a new favourite place to hit the books!
Key trends:
- 70% of surveyed students prefer to study on campus, compared to home
- Most students study on campus three days a week or more
- The UNSW Law Library is the most common study space for surveyed students.
Students' fave study spaces
Finding the right spot to study on campus can be tricky. It's crucial to find a space that caters to your needs, as we all have different styles and approaches to learning.
The aim of this project was to discover common study spaces, learn why they're popular, and discover any hidden gems on campus.
70 per cent of students surveyed prefer to study on campus, as opposed to home. Some common favourites are the Law Library, Main Library, Business School building, and (surprisingly!) the Electrical Engineering building.
UNSW Libraries
The UNSW Main Library and UNSW Law Library being the top competitors for study spaces is no surprise. Both have great facilities, plenty of group study spaces, and are close to the light rail stops.
However, what brings the Law Library on top is its convenience, according to the surveyed students. It's open 24 hours each day and is within walking distance to IGA, offering students easy access to study snacks! Plus, it has plenty of natural light.
In the Main Library, students enjoy the silent study zone on Floor 6, easy access to resources, the larger monitors and desktop computers available, as well as pods for sound insulation for practical study.
UNSW Business School
The Business School building is another popular choice for students. Exploring the floors of the building, it's easy to see why. The space offers a calm and pristine aesthetic that helps us get into a zen mode for studying.
Surveyed students cited easy access to a water tap, plenty of charging ports and comfy chairs as bonuses of the space. Plus, it's close to the Quad Food Court. Yum!
Electrical Engineering Building and Anita B. Lawrence Gallery
Students enjoy these spaces for their quiet yet bustling environment, helping them feel more productive. It's also in a convenient location in the middle of Kensington Campus.
We're told it's especially ideal in the evenings when it's nice and quiet!
CATS rooms and The Quad
Empty CATS rooms are a classic choice of study spot for those favouring a spacious classroom environment.
The Quad is also favourite, being equipped with good tables and electrical sockets for convenience.
Surveyed students enjoy the big, comfy seats and ability to sit outside while protected from the changing weather.
A hidden gem: The Morven Brown study space
The Morven Brown space has a quiet, homely environment that encourages concentration while having the feel of an artistic setting. Bonus points for having all the vital facilities and plenty of group study areas to cater to different needs!
What do students look for in a study space?
Study spaces have different qualities and students have their own unique criteria when selecting a space to sit and study. However, there are some common facilities that many students look for:
- Plenty of electrical sockets
- A kitchenette or microwave for study breaks
- Distance from food courts
- Group study rooms (with whiteboards or screens)
- The option to be able to reserve group study spaces ahead of time
- Natural lighting and ambience.