ABSTRACT
The effectiveness of teaching and learning is influenced by many factors which includes the environment. The teaching-learning environment is affected by open spaces, noise, temperature and humidity, lighting, overcrowding and classroom layouts. These factors are known as biophilic elements and are known to promote learning thus schools must take into consideration these factors for a learner friendly environment. The main purpose of the study is to find out the biophilic qualities of the school facilities and surroundings and its impact on the learning sustainability of the University. The method used by the researcher is a descriptive mixed method using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Qualitative method was used to identify areas the teachers and students preferred to stay and study while quantitative method was used to evaluate the biophilic characteristics of the school. The participants of the study on the qualitative approached were 25 students and 23 faculty through random sampling, while those for the quantitative part are 5 individuals considered to be experts in their fields of disciplines. Thematic analysis was used in the qualitative component and rating of 1 to 10 was used for the quantitative component of the study. Results showed that buildings and facilities with more biophilic elements were more preferred by students and faculty because it allows concentration, stimulation and creativity as well as relaxation. It is thus concluded that biophilic designs supports sustainability of learning. Maintenance of the present biophilic designs and renovation of areas with limited natural environment to include more natural light and ventilation so as to improve learning along those areas in the campus with lesser biophilic qualities.
Keywords : biophilic characteristics, teaching-learning, learning sustainability, learning environment