AM: Ankit Singh - user insights

I was introduced to Ankit Singh, an AUT student studying here after completing an architecture degree in Delhi, India. I pursued an interview with him as he has had experience in a wide range of schools in India, and was hugely knowledgeable on the subject. Talking to him revealed some useful insights. Though not raised in a 'developing' part of India, he is well aware of the difficulties people in that situation face.

- Schooling in India is either state owned or private. Private schools, mainly in rural areas, have severe funding shortages.

- Schooling in India is still mainly derived from an archaic educational model left over from their colonial past. There is a one size fits all approach to providing education, and many people are calling for a revision of the system.

While talking to Ankit, I noticed a certain emphasis placed on the importance of durability in school furniture. He told me durability is hugely important due to the sheer numbers of students in some classrooms; in some cases over 60 students. Any furniture will no doubt take a beating.

He also mentioned the need for reform in India's educational system. Much like in NZ, there are the beginnings of a move away from the ordinary individual seating system to a group table scenario. The benefits of this are numerous. Collaborative group work develops social skills, especially at younger ages, aids in problem solving tasks, and can aid in developing an inquisitive nature in children. Ankit was enthusiastic about my group table design, mentioning that it would work with the shifting dynamic of India's educational system. He stressed the importance of designing for the future. One quote of his that was particularly stirring was:

"propose reform through furniture".

This stuck with me, and will act as a sort of opportunity statement that will direct me through the remainder of this brief.