The Impact of Green Space Design On The Academic Performance Of Students At Wasit University

Abstract

The need to study the impact of green spaces on academic performance within the university campus is crucial, as they are a fundamental element in providing a comfortable and stimulating learning environment that fosters creativity and positive interaction at Wasit University. Despite the presence of some green spaces, their role in improving the educational environment and enhancing students' academic achievement has not been adequately studied. This issue is particularly important given the increasing number of students and the growing need for an attractive and inspiring university environment, especially in light of the challenges of climate change and urban pressures that may affect the sustainability of these spaces. This research will examine several colleges as case studies, namely the Colleges of Engineering, Fine Arts, Education, Arts, and Administration and Economics. These colleges were selected due to their varying spatial distribution within Wasit University, as well as the differing distribution of green spaces around their respective buildings.  Furthermore, they represent diverse educational environments encompassing both scientific and humanities disciplines, providing an ideal opportunity to study the relationship between the design characteristics of green spaces and the level of academic achievement across different study patterns.

The research problem lies in questioning the efficiency of the design and distribution of green spaces in these colleges, and whether they meet the standards that contribute to supporting the educational experience and enhancing academic performance. The study also aims to identify any shortcomings or deficiencies in these spaces compared to optimal design standards, and to provide practical recommendations for improving them in accordance with the needs of the students and the nature of their educational environment. Based on this premise, this study aims to measure and evaluate the impact of green space design in five selected colleges on students' academic performance, focusing on design aspects and spatial distribution, and analyzing the educational implications of this green environment within the campus of Wasit University.

Furthermore, this research aims to analyze the relationship between green spaces at Wasit University and the academic performance of its students, by observing the impact of these spaces on motivating learning, supporting mental health, and enhancing a sense of belonging to the university campus. The research also seeks to provide practical recommendations that can contribute to improving the design and management of these spaces in a way that serves the educational process and enhances the quality of university life.