Space transformation

The concept of social sustainability theory, which suggests that design should reflect the values and needs of diverse communities to promote a sense of belonging, empowerment, and well-being.

Social Sustainability

a design approach that promotes sustainable and inclusive societies by reflecting the values and needs of diverse communities

Community engagement

involving and collaborating with local residents, stakeholders, and other interested parties in the design and decision-making process

Placemaking

a process that involves understanding the needs and aspirations of people in a particular space and working with the community to create functional, attractive, and sustainable public spaces

Collaboration

working with others to achieve a common goal or vision

Design

the process of creating products, systems, or environments that meet the needs and desires of people

Strategy

a plan of action for achieving a particular goal or vision

Vision

a clear and inspiring image of the desired future state

METACOGNITION | PERSONAL GROWTH | SELF-AWARENESS

The social sustainability theory focuses on the role that design can play in promoting a more sustainable and inclusive society. It argues that design should reflect the values and needs of diverse communities and promote a sense of belonging, empowerment and well-being. Environmental psychology explores the relationship between people and their physical environment. It suggests that design makes a change and has a significant impact on human behaviour, emotions and well-being. . My project focuses on placemaking, which is associated with philosophy and a process that involves understanding the needs and aspirations of people in a particular space by observing, listening, and asking questions. It involves working with the community to create a vision and strategy for improving public spaces, starting with short-term experimental improvements that bring benefits and inform longer-term changes (Project for Public Spaces, 2022). It emphasises the role of community engagement and collaboration in shaping the built environment and creating spaces that reflect the needs and values of the people who use them. Placemaking considers the cultural, social, and economic aspects of a place and seeks to create spaces that are functional, attractive, and sustainable.

However, at the beginning of the process, I decided to use the simple and easy for me at this stage of research, an observational method to study. Thus, I visited local public spaces, observing and recording behaviours and attitudes to gain a deeper understanding of the space’s significance to the local community. The Box in Plymouth is a local dynamic and cultural space that showcases the rich heritage and cultural identity of Plymouth and the surrounding region. During this visit, I explored the broad collection of artefacts, installations and artistic exhibitions. Walking around the various rooms, I noticed a sensorial experience with specific sounds in the background adjusted to a particular context of the theme. I discovered a specific atmosphere achieved by music effects, which enhanced my experience. The installation allows the viewer to touch materials, watch scenes and movies, and sit and immerse in an imaginary environment.

Devonport Library

Breaking Barriers: How Social Transformation and Empowerment Lead to Personal Growth

Transformative learning, creativity, social transformation and empowerment are interrelated concepts that can have a significant impact on personal development. Reflecting on my personal experience with these concepts helped me to deepen my understanding of them and facilitate further growth and transformation. Transformative learning involves a profound shift in perspective that enhances personal growth. However, creativity is the ability to generate new ideas, make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts and create something original. It is also an essential aspect of personal development, as it helps generate ideas outside the box, challenge assumptions, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Social transformation refers to the process of bringing about meaningful change in society, often through the efforts of groups or communities working together to effect positive change. This can challenge social norms, promote equality and justice, and foster a greater sense of community and cooperation. Empowerment involves giving individuals the tools and resources they need to take control of their lives to achieve their goals. This can involve promoting self-confidence, providing access to education or training, and supporting individuals in their efforts to effect positive change in their lives and the world around them.

How you’re changing our lives?

Mindset change

Mindset change can be challenging, as it requires individuals to challenge deeply held beliefs and consider new perspectives. It can also be a powerful tool for personal growth and development. By adopting a growth mindset, individuals can embrace challenges, learn from failures, and develop new skills and abilities.

Reflection

A powerful tool for personal growth and development. It allows individuals to identify their own strengths and weaknesses, understand how their experiences have shaped them, and set goals for their future. By reflecting on their own behaviour and thought processes, individuals can gain insights into their motivations and desires and make positive changes to their lives.

The Soul of Space: How Placemaking Goes Beyond the Physical Environment

Placemaking considers the cultural, social, and economic aspects of a place and seeks to create spaces that are functional, attractive, and sustainable. However, the focus on placemaking has been limited to the physical aspects of the built environment, it is important to recognise that placemaking also involves intangible heritage, such as issues of identity, ownership, and embody. Placemaking is also tied to spiritual and cultural practices closely linked to the concept of space (Cultural Value Project Report, 2016).

The Box Plymouth

| PERSONAL GROWTH | METACOGNITION | SELF-AWARENESS | PARADIGM SHIFT | PERSPECTIVE TRANSFORMATION | CRITICAL THINKING | EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING | ADULT EDUCATION | UNLEARNING | CONSCIOUSNESS RAISING | EMPOWERMENT | MINDSET CHANGE | SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING | SPACE TRANSFORMATION |

the future of transformative learning

A significant trend in the future of transformative learning can growing emphasis on social and cultural awareness. As issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion continue to gain prominence in society, transformative learning is likely to play an increasingly important role in promoting empathy, understanding, and social change.

Contact me via Joanna Krzeminska at jk10674486@aup.ac.uk