Capturing Memories in Green Spaces: A Qualitative Study of Student Experiences with Plant-Designed Convocation Storyboards at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Abstract

University convocations mark important milestones in students' academic careers, representing years of work and success. More and more, universities are using innovative landscape architecture and eco-friendly design to improve the experience of the emotional and physical spaces of the graduation ceremonies. This study explores students’ perceptions and experiences of plant-designed convocation storyboards as curated landscapes during the 50th and 51st convocations at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. These storyboards were made of ornamental plants and landscape design to create an eco-friendly and visually appealing backdrop for students to take pictures. A qualitative methodology was used in the research to examine students' emotional reactions and feelings to the green installations. Semi-structured interviews were used to capture the experiences of the students participating in the convocation ceremonies and the plant storyboards. A total of 50 students from different faculties who participated in the 50th and 51st convocation ceremonies were interviewed, and the collected qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify the main themes of the students' experiences. The students regarded the plant storyboards as visually appealing, ecologically good, and symbolically associated with their academic success. Students noted that the greenery present in their graduation photos, the social places that made the experience memorable, and their emotional ties to the campus were enhanced. The use of real plants was noted to help foster an awareness of the environment. This research elucidates the contribution of green campus initiatives to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) notably SDG 4 (Quality Education) by fostering experiential learning, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through sustainable campus architecture, and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by encouraging campus biodiversity and green infrastructure. The findings highlight the importance of integrating landscape design and sustainable green installations into ceremonial university spaces, providing practical insights for university planners, landscape architects, landscape curators and event organizers seeking to enhance meaningful student experiences through environmentally responsible design.