An Assessment Model for Socio-Cultural Sustainability of Campus Outdoor Environments Using Physical and Satisfaction Indicators

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Bibliographic Details
Title: An Assessment Model for Socio-Cultural Sustainability of Campus Outdoor Environments Using Physical and Satisfaction Indicators
Language: English
Authors: Odeta Manahasa, Manjola Logli, Edmond Manahasa
Source: International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education. 2026 27(3):647-672.
Availability: Emerald Publishing Limited. Howard House, Wagon Lane, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1WA, UK. Tel: +44-1274-777700; Fax: +44-1274-785201; e-mail: emerald@emeraldinsight.com; Web site: http://www.emerald.com/insight
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 26
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Campuses, Physical Environment, Sustainability, Sociocultural Patterns, Foreign Countries, Agricultural Colleges, College Students, School Personnel, College Faculty, Satisfaction
Geographic Terms: Albania (Tirana)
DOI: 10.1108/IJSHE-08-2024-0561
ISSN: 1467-6370
1758-6739
Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to identify the physical properties of the outdoor campus planning and its components in the development of a sustainable campus, regarding the socio-cultural dimension. Design/methodology/approach: Studying the under-theorized concept of socio-cultural sustainability in a university campus context and exploring their fundamental role in societies can contribute to generating socio-cultural sustainability on a broader scale. As a case study is taken, the Agricultural University campus of Tirana, where a meta-analysis and an observation of the campus components through a checklist are done. An online questionnaire with campus users brought their view about campus usage. The physical design and the experiences of the building users are all considered when comparing the socio-cultural sustainability of the campus's outdoor environments qualitatively. Findings: Findings conclude a common attitude towards most of the campus components by the users. In addition, the main properties of the physicality of a campus environment that contribute to a socio-cultural sustainable campus design are found to be the adequacy of outdoor components, the quality of outdoor environments, accessibility, safety and comfort, all elements that refine the assessment model. Originality/value: This study's novelty relies on proposing a socio-cultural sustainability model that works as a matrix to improve future assessment of campus outdoor spaces.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1503503
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Purpose: This study aims to identify the physical properties of the outdoor campus planning and its components in the development of a sustainable campus, regarding the socio-cultural dimension. Design/methodology/approach: Studying the under-theorized concept of socio-cultural sustainability in a university campus context and exploring their fundamental role in societies can contribute to generating socio-cultural sustainability on a broader scale. As a case study is taken, the Agricultural University campus of Tirana, where a meta-analysis and an observation of the campus components through a checklist are done. An online questionnaire with campus users brought their view about campus usage. The physical design and the experiences of the building users are all considered when comparing the socio-cultural sustainability of the campus's outdoor environments qualitatively. Findings: Findings conclude a common attitude towards most of the campus components by the users. In addition, the main properties of the physicality of a campus environment that contribute to a socio-cultural sustainable campus design are found to be the adequacy of outdoor components, the quality of outdoor environments, accessibility, safety and comfort, all elements that refine the assessment model. Originality/value: This study's novelty relies on proposing a socio-cultural sustainability model that works as a matrix to improve future assessment of campus outdoor spaces.
ISSN:1467-6370
1758-6739
DOI:10.1108/IJSHE-08-2024-0561