TITLE:
The Impact of Campus Green Space Physical Environments on Students: A Case Study of Copperbelt University
AUTHORS:
Bupe Mpundu, Yamei Shen
KEYWORDS:
Campus Green Spaces, Student Perceptions, Attention Restoration, Social Interactions, Design Factors, Usage, Sustainability, Landscape Aesthetics, University Environment
JOURNAL NAME:
Current Urban Studies,
Vol.12 No.3,
September
14,
2024
ABSTRACT: Studies have found that the designed environment of the university can influence the degree of stress students may feel and there is a relationship between university student use of campus green spaces and their perceptions of quality of life at a university. This study investigates the impact and usage of campus green spaces among 370 students from eight faculties at Copperbelt University using quantitative research methods. The research aims to explore the benefits of green spaces for students, including their capacity to restore attention and facilitate social interactions. Questionnaires and on-site observations were employed to measure design factors and students’ perceptions, impact and their usage of campus green spaces. The results revealed that 70% of the participants appreciated the aesthetic contribution of green spaces to the university. However, a majority of students were found to be unaware of the numerous benefits these spaces offer, leading to limited interaction. The survey findings indicated that open spaces with abundant green cover were perceived as beautiful and enhanced the campus image, while those with easy accessibility facilitated higher usage. These results underscore the need to revisit campus green space design and provide valuable insights for sustainability policymakers and campus landscape designers to improve the overall appearance and promote diverse usage of these spaces. Dressing the current demand for student-valued features in campus green spaces, the university can create a more attractive and functional environment for its students.