Metaphorical approaches as interpretative tools in enhancing users engagement of learning centre

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the metaphorical approaches as interpretative tools for enhancing users' engagement in learning centres. In general, metaphorical is a cognitive process that uses the idealisation of mapping one domain to another with main with the main purpose of heightening our understanding of the realm of knowledge from a different perspective. The approach has been seen as a powerful and useful tool to convey building design intention and hidden meanings that architects intend to emphasize whether the metaphorical approach implementation was implicit or explicit. The metaphorical approach allows a deeper understanding of the various tangent of the learning process. As it holds the ability to enhance one’s knowledge as well as promote human engagement, interaction and participation. However, designers tend to portray a metaphoric approach on the surface layer of understanding, rather than elaborating on the purpose of the implementation and how the approaches can enhance the community’s engagement. In conjunction with that, there are insufficient studies that elaborate on the implementation of metaphorical architecture theory with respect to the metaphorical levels. Barely has the implementation of metaphoric based on its respective levels been considered in such a manner, where the metaphoric levels hold justification for implementing metaphoric level in a more meaningful and appropriate. Thus, this paper would be discussing and analyse appropriate metaphorical approaches and strategies that would be suitable to be implemented in a learning centre to enhance community engagement. This study would be conducted through a combination of qualitative and quantitative data comprises of literature review, case studies and questionnaires. The findings of this study would appropriate insights and guidelines to future architects and designers on appropriate approaches and strategies for utilising metaphorical theory as part of the design tool. The metaphorical-learning cycle framework aims to contribute to the literature body related to the metaphorical approach, especially with the intention to enhance community engagement.