Urban and Regional Development Planning
Aliakbar Salaripour; Arman Hamidi; Alieh Faridi Foshtomi,; Amir Hosein Nourbakhsh
Abstract
Nowadays, a significant aspect of citizens' environmental conduct is intertwined with their connection and emotional bond to the city. This attachment to the urban environment is regarded as a critical element in fostering environmentally conscientious citizens. The present research adopts a descriptive-quantitative ...
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Nowadays, a significant aspect of citizens' environmental conduct is intertwined with their connection and emotional bond to the city. This attachment to the urban environment is regarded as a critical element in fostering environmentally conscientious citizens. The present research adopts a descriptive-quantitative approach. A total of 402 questionnaires were completed by residents of Rasht city to collect data, aimed at assessing the influence of city attachment levels and personal characteristics on the manifestation of environmentally supportive behaviors among citizens. The data gathered from the questionnaires were then quantitatively inputted into SPSS software for modeling and analysis, subsequently employing Smart PLS3 software. The research findings, contrary to initial expectations, indicate a lack of significant correlation between indicators such as individual place attachment, city of birth, duration of residence, and educational level, and the environmentally supportive behaviors exhibited by citizens. However, the modeling results reveal that, initially, the environmentally supportive behaviors of citizens are most closely linked to and impacted by their social attachment to the city or place of residence. Subsequently, certain personal characteristics of citizens, including age and marital status, were found to directly influence these environmentally supportive behaviors, indicating a significant relationship between them.Keywords: Attachment to Place, Pro-environmental Behaviors, Social Attachment to Place, Rasht. IntroductionThe concept of place attachment, denoting the emotional bond individuals develop with a specific location, encompasses positive emotional sentiments, cognitive thoughts, and behavioral inclinations that evolve over time, reflecting individuals' interactions with their social-physical surroundings, from birth throughout their lives (Bischoff, 2022: 7). Place attachment can manifest across various environmental scales, including the home, neighborhood, urban area, or city (Belanche et al., 2016: 77). While some scholars emphasize place attachment as a significant and influential factor in shaping environmental behaviors, contradictory findings in several studies suggest an uncertain relationship between place attachment and pro-environmental behaviors. It is noted that different dimensions of place attachment may exert varying levels of influence (Junot et al., 2018: 49).From a scholarly perspective, this research contributes to advancing knowledge in environmental psychology by examining the factors that impact pro-environmental behaviors. In practical terms, the study offers valuable insights for urban and environmental managers and planners concerning the needs, expectations, and behaviors of Rasht citizens regarding various urban and environmental spaces. This information can aid in devising and implementing appropriate programs and policies aimed at preserving and enhancing the urban environment while also enhancing citizens' satisfaction with their preferred locales. Literature ReviewThe results of numerous empirical studies consistently indicate the significance of place attachment and community attachment in shaping concerns and pro-environmental behaviors (Buta et al., 2014: 3). For instance, Halpenny (2010) investigated the influence of place attachment on pro-environmental behaviors through structural modeling, affirming the substantial impact of place attachment on intentions for environmental actions.Ramkissoon and colleagues (2013) argued that place dependence and place identity possess distinct psychological characteristics, leading to differing effects on well-being and overall environmental behaviors, sometimes even contradicting each other. Hence, researchers must consider the multifaceted dimensions of place attachment and their implications for pro-environmental behaviors, as place attachment encompasses social and cultural attachments beyond identity and dependence alone (Junot et al., 2018: 51). In a similar vein, Song and Supramaniam (2019) explored the specific aspects of place attachment that play a more significant role in promoting various pro-environmental behaviors. Their findings highlighted the greater influence of social attachment over individual attachment on pro-environmental behaviors.In another study, Soleimani and colleagues (2020) investigated the impact of different components of place attachment on social participation in environmental conservation in Tehran. Their research revealed that 36 percent of the positive changes in citizens' environmental engagement could be attributed to components related to identity and dependence in place attachment, with the identity component exerting a more substantial influence than the dependence component. MethodologyThe current study adopts a descriptive-quantitative approach to address research issues, with an applied objective. Data collection involved surveys and document analysis. The questionnaire comprised four sections: personal characteristics, individual place attachment, social place attachment, and pro-environmental behaviors of citizens, each containing relevant indicators. A total of 402 online questionnaires were distributed to citizens and residents of Rasht. The data from these surveys were quantitatively inputted into SPSS software. Initial validation of the questionnaire was conducted through examination of the Cronbach's alpha coefficient, indicating strong internal reliability and trustworthiness with a value of 0.92. Subsequent modeling and analysis of the findings were performed using Smart PLS3 software. Reliability methods (including composite reliability, Cronbach's alpha, and average variance extracted) and validity methods (such as confirmatory factor analysis, and convergent and discriminant validity) were employed to assess the collected data. ResultsBased on the results gleaned from the questionnaires, the "individual place attachment" index exhibited the highest average score of 4.01, ranking first. It was followed by the indices of "citizens' pro-environmental behaviors" and "social place attachment" with averages of 3.48 and 3.25, respectively. Notably, the statement "I often participate in local projects and activities" received the lowest average score of 2.23, while "interest in the traditional native culture of this city" received the highest average score of 4.17 among the statements.Furthermore, examining the factors of individual place attachment revealed that the factor "I consider Rasht a part of my being" had the highest coefficient of overlap at 0.912, indicating strong attachment. Conversely, "living in Rasht defines various aspects of my personality and identity" showed the least overlap with a coefficient of 0.764. Regarding social place attachment, the factor "I love the native culture and tradition of this city" exhibited the highest overlap coefficient at 0.817, highlighting the significant role of culture in fostering attachment. Conversely, "I participate in the city's social programs" had the least overlap with a coefficient of 0.644. Among citizens' pro-environmental behaviors, "I often talk about environmental issues with my friends" showed the highest overlap with a coefficient of 0.798, while "attention to vehicle pollution standards and fuel consumption when buying" had the least overlap at 0.676.Moreover, analyzing individual characteristics indicated that age had the highest coefficient of overlap at 0.949, followed by marital status at 0.830.In terms of the structural equation model employed in the research, the independent indices were able to predict 36.8 percent of the variance changes in the dependent index. Notably, the index of social place attachment exhibited the most significant impact on the dependent index with a coefficient of 0.575, followed by the index of personal characteristics with a coefficient of 0.193. Conversely, the index of individual place attachment, despite its inverse relationship, had an insignificant and negligible impact on citizens' pro-environmental behaviors, indicated by a coefficient of -0.013. ConclusionThe findings of this study underscore the influence of various individual characteristics, such as age and marital status, on citizens' pro-environmental behaviors, indicating a direct correlation between these factors. Notably, married individuals demonstrate a greater concern for the environment compared to their single counterparts. Similarly, the research reveals that as individuals age, they tend to exhibit more environmentally supportive behaviors, underscoring heightened environmental awareness and action among middle-aged and older demographics compared to younger age groups.Furthermore, the research highlights a noticeable lack of social interactions among citizens, particularly a deficiency in civic participation within the city. This lack of social engagement stands as a primary impediment to fostering stronger social attachments among citizens. Addressing this challenge necessitates a focused approach aimed at enhancing citizens' social attachment to their environment. This can be achieved by creating conducive urban spaces designed to facilitate greater interpersonal interaction. Additionally, leveraging citizen input and perspectives to bolster their involvement and collaboration with urban management can significantly contribute to shifting attitudes and fostering a heightened sense of responsibility toward the urban and surrounding environment.Moreover, providing financial support and resources to non-governmental organizations operating in the environmental sector can serve as a pivotal and impactful measure in driving positive changes in citizens' attitudes and behaviors, ultimately leading to a more environmentally conscious and engaged populace.
Urban and Regional Development Planning
Roghayeh Bakhshandeh; Korosh Afzali; Mohamadhadi Almasi
Abstract
In recent decades, the popularity of establishing and utilizing bicycles has spread across numerous cities worldwide, yet its adoption remains limited in Iranian urban centers. The aim of this study is to investigate the public acceptability of bicycle usage in the small town of Aq Qala. The research ...
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In recent decades, the popularity of establishing and utilizing bicycles has spread across numerous cities worldwide, yet its adoption remains limited in Iranian urban centers. The aim of this study is to investigate the public acceptability of bicycle usage in the small town of Aq Qala. The research adopts a quantitative approach combined with deductive reasoning and employs a survey methodology. Data collection utilized a researcher-developed questionnaire, targeting a sample size of 400 individuals. The findings reveal a low level of public acceptance towards bicycle usage, highlighting significant deficiencies in the social dimensions of bicycle utilization within Aq Qala. Moreover, the study observes a lack of significant correlation coefficients among variables such as "attitudes," "Injunctive norms," and even "perceived usefulness" with behavioral variables. This context suggests a prevalent disbelief in bicycles as a viable mode of transportation, with a stronger inclination towards associating bicycles with recreational activities. Additionally, results from the multiple linear regression test underscore the significance of the overall model, highlighting a relationship among socio-psychological variables within the research framework. Notably, the three influencing variables identified are awareness (+0.292), descriptive norms (+0.243), and individual affectivity (-0.312), contributing to a 23% change in the transformability of the dependent variable, as indicated by the adjusted coefficient of determination. Conclusively, the study's statistical findings have been meticulously reviewed and interpreted, shedding light on the complex dynamics surrounding public acceptability of bicycle usage in Aq Qala.Keywords: Bicycle, Public Acceptance, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Model, Theory of Planned Behavior, Aq Qala. IntroductionTransportation has emerged as a fundamental and pivotal component in the structure and governance of contemporary cities, with its significance transcending mere population size. The design and interplay of transportation components within a city carry profound implications for urban sustainability. Among sustainable and physically based transportation modes, the bicycle stands out as a vehicle mobility option. However, empirical research indicates that its impact extends beyond infrastructural aspects like dedicated cycling lanes and routes; cultural, social, and behavioral dimensions also play pivotal roles.The primary focus of this research is to delve into the behavioral dimensions of bicycle usage within the framework of a comprehensive index of public acceptability. This index serves as a measurement tool to gauge the level of public acceptance and identify the influential variables affecting bicycle usage as a mode of travel.The research questions guiding this investigation are as follows:How can we develop a composite and responsive model for bicycle usage, utilizing existing models for measuring public acceptability?What is the level and scale of public acceptability regarding bicycle usage in the small town of Aq Qala, assessed through social-behavioral analysis indicators?Literature ReviewCompared to motorized transportation modes, bicycles possess a higher relative advantage across various urban mobility indicators, including speed, agility, flexibility, and the public health benefits they confer upon cities. This recognition has led to the development of a range of new supporting theories within this scientific domain. These theories, from "new urbanism" to "15-minute cities," underscore the significance and integral role of bicycles within the urban transportation system.MethodologyThe methodology employed in this research adopts a quantitative approach coupled with the logic of deductive reasoning, rooted in survey research. Data collection utilized a researcher-developed questionnaire comprising a set of main variables along with auxiliary variables, totaling sixteen variables and 89 items. A sample size of 400 individuals was selected using a simple random sampling method. The study utilized a hybrid model derived from two well-known and widely used models: the "UTAUT" model and the "Theory of Planned Behavior." This hybrid model served as the framework for measuring the public acceptability index. The approach to measuring public acceptability in this research entails a sociological perspective, observing the potential practical utilization of bicycles in the city of Aq Qala as a case study.ResultsAccording to fundamental transportation variables and statistical data, it is observed that 50% of the population of Aq Qala owns a car, with 86% having access to one. In contrast, the ownership rate of bicycles stands at 35%, with a corresponding access rate of 53%. Regarding practical cycling behavior, the average cycling behavior among residents of Aq Qala city is estimated at 2.45 out of 5 points on the Likert scale, with 70% of the city's populace abstaining from using bicycles for travel. The inferential findings of this research unveil low acceptability and notable deficiencies in the social dimensions of bicycle usage within Aq Qala city. Moreover, there is a lack of significant confirmation regarding correlation coefficients among variables such as "attitude," "emphasized norms," and even "perceived usefulness" with the behavior variable. This context underscores a prevalent skepticism towards bicycles as a viable mode of travel, while a more pronounced inclination towards associating bicycles with sporting activities is observed. Further analysis through the multiple linear regression test reveals the overall significance of the model, establishing a relationship among socio-psychological variables within the research framework. Specifically, the three influencing variables "awareness" (+0.292), "descriptive norms" (+0.243), and "individual susceptibility" (-0.312) are found to be significant, contributing to a 23% change in the transformability of the dependent variable as indicated by the adjusted coefficient of determination.DiscussionGenerally, there has been limited research concerning bicycle usage in small cities, with the majority of studies predominantly centered on large cities. Consequently, directing attention towards small cities enables enhanced comparability of findings within this specific context.ConclusionIn the city of Aq Qala, bicycle usage remains low due to a combination of subjective beliefs and objective conditions that do not favor cycling as a primary mode of urban transportation, despite its potential as a modern and efficient vehicle. The prevalent preference for private cars is conspicuous, particularly given the absence of a well-developed urban public transportation system and the prevailing cultural preference for private car usage in this small city. To address this issue, future-oriented targeted strategies are imperative to foster a cultural shift and promote the operational use of bicycles in this small northern city. This research has identified and introduced significant variables that influence bicycle usage, offering valuable insights for the development and practical implementation of bicycle initiatives not only in Aq Qala but also in other small and large cities throughout the country.
Urban and Regional Development Planning
seyyed mohammadmahdi Hosseinikia; Leila Medghalchi; Aida Maleki; Parisa Hashempour
Abstract
The challenge of determining the most appropriate method for spatial analysis has long captivated the attention of researchers. Many spatial studies rely solely on either quantitative or qualitative research methods and techniques, yielding insights that only scratch the surface of spatial characteristics. ...
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The challenge of determining the most appropriate method for spatial analysis has long captivated the attention of researchers. Many spatial studies rely solely on either quantitative or qualitative research methods and techniques, yielding insights that only scratch the surface of spatial characteristics. This research aims to conduct a comparative analysis of two spatial arrangement methods: one focusing on spatial structure and the other utilizing the "Project for Public Spaces" (PPS) approach, which emphasizes environmental quality through defined indicators such as sociability, accessibility, uses and activities, comfort, and image. Additionally, this study explores the feasibility of concurrently utilizing these methods to comprehensively assess the quality of the studied location. The rationale for selecting these methods includes their efficiency, widespread usage, and ability to accommodate both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The historical market of Tabriz city serves as the focal point for measuring spatial quality, serving as an architectural and urban design indicator. Quantitative values derived from the spatial arrangement method encompass coherence, connection, and comprehensibility. The findings of this study revealed discrepancies between the outcomes of these two methods. While PPS evaluated environmental factors in the market based on user feedback regarding socio-cultural impacts, the space arrangement analysis aligned with assumptions about individual behavior in relation to the market's physical structure. Compared to the spatial layout, which primarily assesses mobility and user movement through morphological indicators, PPS, by considering human factors, more accurately reflects the livability of market spaces. In conclusion, the integration of these two methods presents a novel alternative approach for obtaining comprehensive and reliable results in measuring space quality.Keywords: Spatial Arrangement, PPS Matrix, Spatial Quality, Space Syntax, Tabriz Bazaar. IntroductionDetermining the most suitable method for spatial analysis has long captivated researchers' attention. Traditionally, spatial analysis has been conducted using either quantitative or qualitative research methods, each offering insights into specific aspects of spatial characteristics. One method that has gained prominence for investigating spatial qualities is the spatial arrangement method, first introduced in 1980 and further developed to explore the correlation between pedestrian movement and spatial configuration. Researchers employing this method utilize numerical data to elucidate the factors contributing to the success of spaces recognized for their high quality. Subsequently, since 1980, the PPS matrix has been utilized in a qualitative approach to evaluate public spaces, enhancing their livability by assessing the quality of successful spaces. This matrix serves as a foundational tool for studies on the success of places in numerous projects. However, each of these methods illuminates only certain qualitative aspects of space, necessitating a comprehensive investigation. Hence, this study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of these two methods within the Tabriz market setting. Specifically, utilizing the same study sample, the research will objectively and exemplarily explore the similarities and differences between these methods, their approaches to analyzing results, and the potential for their integration.Literature ReviewThere have been extensive studies conducted on the Tabriz market, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. These studies have delved into various aspects, including the exploration of ancient structures, the evolutionary trajectory of architecture within the Tabriz market with an emphasis on contextualism, physical examinations of market spaces including intricate architectural motifs, and an analysis of economic functions and their impact, often employing a qualitative lens.Additionally, a subset of studies has focused on evaluating the behavior of space users through quantitative methodologies and modeling techniques. For instance, Najari Nabi's research delves into the role of physical and functional factors in enhancing sociability within traditional Iranian markets, utilizing the space arrangement technique (Najari Nabi and Mahdinejad, 2019). Other studies, such as those by Abdullahi (2019) and Sajjadzadeh and Najari Nabi (2019), have explored spatial structures and behavioral patterns, while Hosseini Kia et al. (2002) have conducted a comparative analysis of spatial indicators for successful places, showcasing instances where quantitative and qualitative processes have been employed separately or in conjunction.In contrast to previous studies, this research stands out due to its comparative examination of two distinct quantitative and qualitative methodologies within the Tabriz market setting. This innovative approach allows for a more comprehensive analysis of various dimensions, providing a nuanced perspective that integrates the outcomes of both quantitative and qualitative methods.MethodologyIn this study, two distinct methods were employed: 1) surveying using a field data collection tool, and 2) analyzing axial line maps. The survey outcomes were utilized to decipher the qualitative parameters of PPS, bolstered by observational data. This research encompasses a comparative evaluation and examination of the methods utilized to gauge the quality of spaces within the Tabriz market, employing the aforementioned two approaches in conjunction. The researcher engaged in interviews with users of the bazaar and business spaces to gather information on four separate occasions, totaling 4 days of data collection. The interviews were conducted for approximately 4 to 7 hours each day, spanning various times of the day until sunset.ConclusionThe overarching outcome of the comparative analysis indicates that neither of these methods in isolation offers a comprehensive depiction of the spatial quality within the market. However, the amalgamation of insights derived from these two methods results in enhanced accuracy when assessing spatial qualities. Key findings from this analysis include:The space layout method facilitates the identification of fixed market conditions, whereas the PPS approach enables exploration of variable situations encompassing uses, events, and all market activities.Data obtained from the space arrangement method is contingent upon the market's scale and spatial structure, whereas results from the PPS approach are relatively independent of market scale.PPS assesses environmental factors within the market alongside people's feedback regarding socio-cultural impacts, while the space layout method primarily analyzes individual behavior assumptions based on the market's physical structure.Spatial quality evaluations indicate an average or higher-than-average rating based on PPS indicators, contrasting with lower-than-average ratings derived from spatial arrangement data.Space syntax calculations involve numerical measurements of market axis lines within the northern markets and public spaces, whereas the PPS approach offers observational insights into how space practically influences user behavior, emotions, and perceptions.Although there is partial overlap between space syntax and PPS evaluations, their advantages, such as rapid data acquisition and numerical measurement, render the space layout method suitable as an initial data collection tool preceding a space experiment.
Urban and Regional Development Planning
Hadi Barghamadi; Simin Zamani
Abstract
Leisure and recreation are an integral part of the daily life. Governments should provide a healthy environment to meet this need by creating recreational and cultural centers. This research tries to identify the possible effects of the construction of the city theater [before the action] by looking ...
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Leisure and recreation are an integral part of the daily life. Governments should provide a healthy environment to meet this need by creating recreational and cultural centers. This research tries to identify the possible effects of the construction of the city theater [before the action] by looking into the future. Therefore, this research seeks to answer the question, what effects will the construction of Karaj city theater have and how can we reduce possible negative effects and increase its positive effects? Is. The methodological approach of this research is a combination, and quantitative and qualitative methods were used to collect data and information. In line with the objectives of the research, the effects identified in 5 social, cultural, environmental-physical, economic and psychological dimensions have been categorized and the importance of each variable has been determined by using the opinions of experts (Delphi method). Cultural tension, the prolongation of the construction process, the presence of prostitutes, beggars and child labor, the change of design and the predominance of commercial use, the opposition of some institutions and organizations, the increase in the cost of construction and maintenance, robbery and theft, the increase in housing rent, air pollution and noise, gathering of criminals and mobs, monopolization of space for the benefit of a certain group and reduction of security, increase in hawking, quarrels and conflicts, and decrease in the sense of social belonging and depopulation of the neighborhood and decrease in citizen satisfaction has been identified as the risks of this project.
Urban and Regional Development Planning
Jamaleddin Honarvar; Mokhtar Rostami; Maryam Aznab; Faezeh Taheri Sarmad
Abstract
Living spaces in each region are shaped by the cultural, environmental, social, historical, and political influences of that region. The city of Paveh, located in the north of Kermanshah province, is home to valuable historical houses, primarily built in a stepped arrangement that conforms to the ...
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Living spaces in each region are shaped by the cultural, environmental, social, historical, and political influences of that region. The city of Paveh, located in the north of Kermanshah province, is home to valuable historical houses, primarily built in a stepped arrangement that conforms to the topography and slope of the land. This research aimed to understand the physical and spatial elements in the traditional houses of Paveh. By examining these elements, the study identified the factors influencing the form and physical and spatial characteristics of these traditional houses. The research employed a descriptive-analytical method, incorporating the study of existing conditions, interviews, document reviews, observation, and mapping. The target population was selected purposefully using a snowball sampling method. The results indicate that the interior spaces of Paveh's traditional houses serve multiple purposes, including hallways, kitchens, storage rooms, rooms, and staircases, arranged on one or two floors. The factors influencing the design of these houses include cultural, social, religious, and economic characteristics. Notable features include the use of natural materials, spatial hierarchy, appropriate separation of spaces, construction of houses atop or adjacent to each other, and attention to climatic considerations such as proper orientation, "Chinese chairs," and appropriately sized openings. These elements are the most important factors in shaping the physical form and spatial organization of houses in Paveh.Keywords: Physical Elements, Spatial Elements, Historical Houses, Staircase Houses, Paveh, Kermanshah. IntroductionIn its profound sense, home represents a sense of attachment to a specific environment, overshadowing other concepts related to that place. The home is the starting point for one’s journey to engage with the world (Kezan Mohammadi et al., 2009, p. 53). Traditionally, the physical structure of homes has been intelligently designed to serve both human and environmental interests. The builders of these indigenous structures have endeavored to foster a harmonious relationship between the environment, culture, and the architectural form of living spaces, ultimately promoting humanization (Basiagu1, 1999, p. 146). Vernacular architecture, a branch of architecture based on regional needs and building materials, reflects regional traditions. The city of Paveh, located in the northwest of Kermanshah province, boasts many valuable buildings over three thousand years old. These structures are primarily built in a stepped fashion, adhering to the topography of the land.Research Question(s) Literature ReviewWhat distinguishes the current research from previous studies is the focus on the city of Paveh, known as the "City of a Thousand Masolehs" in the West, for its unique stepped architectural form and its impending designation as a national heritage site. Despite this recognition, no comprehensive study has been conducted on the influential components in the formation of the physical and spatial characteristics of the traditional houses in Paveh. The review goes under these subheadings.2.1. This Is Level 2To examine the influence of culture and livelihood on the development of the physical and biological aspects of traditional houses in Paveh.2.1.1. This is level 3Exploring and identifying the significant cultural and livelihood factors contributing to the development of the physical and biological aspects of traditional houses in Paveh City. MethodologyThe present study constitutes an applied research endeavor, employing a descriptive-analytical methodology with a focus on logical reasoning. The theoretical segment adopts a qualitative approach, drawing from existing theoretical literature within the domain of traditional housing typology and the influential criteria for assessing components that impact the physical and biological spatial configuration of traditional houses. This theoretical framework underwent content analysis and investigation.In this research, in-depth interviews were conducted with individuals including residents, officials, and institutions associated with historical and traditional houses. Additionally, document reviews, observations, photography, and spatial assessments of samples were performed. The participants were selected through targeted sampling, specifically among officials and residents of Paveh city, employing the snowball method. Finally, utilizing logical reasoning methods, interviews with key individuals responsible for historical houses and cultural heritage management, coupled with field mapping of historical terraced houses in Paveh, were conducted to explore and analyze the influential components affecting the physical and biological spatial formation of traditional houses in Paveh city. ConclusionThrough analysis and investigation, this research reveals that the livelihood, culture of the local settlement, and climatic and environmental factors constitute the most significant elements influencing the physical and spatial organization of houses in Paveh. Notably, the impactful cultural-religious aspects of form encompass the utilization of entrance porches for visual activities or everyday excursions, the creation of pre-entrance areas to ensure privacy, and variations in open and closed volumes. Climatic features, on the other hand, stem from the reciprocal interaction between buildings and the natural environment, termed climatic adaptation, which involves considerations such as humidity (manifested in stair and seating arrangements tailored to different house dimensions), precipitation, light radiation (reflected in varying window sizes), wind (incorporated into pre-entrance construction to mitigate its effects), climatic orientation, and land shape impacting architectural form and orientation. Moreover, economic factors significantly influence form, with small-scale houses exhibiting simpler details compared to larger-scale houses, which often feature multiple yards and porches, enhanced detailing, and superior location considerations.
Urban and Regional Development Planning
Hassan Hoveizavi; Hamid Saberi; Mehri Azani; Fereshte Ahmadi
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of urban third places in the environmental quality of Ahvaz City. This study was conducted with a quantitative approach, employing a survey method and relying on library-documentary studies in 2023 in Ahvaz City. The statistical population ...
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The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of urban third places in the environmental quality of Ahvaz City. This study was conducted with a quantitative approach, employing a survey method and relying on library-documentary studies in 2023 in Ahvaz City. The statistical population consists of all the citizens of Ahvaz (885,000 people) in 2015. Using Cochran's formula, a sample size of 390 people was determined and selected randomly through a researcher-made questionnaire. ANOVA tests, regression analysis, one-sample t-tests, path analysis, and other statistical methods were utilized to analyze the data. The findings indicate that all ten investigated indicators exceeded the base average (3). Furthermore, the regression model revealed that the predictor variables explain (R²=0.741) the variance of the criterion variable (environmental quality). Region 6 (average 4.08) demonstrated superior environmental quality compared to the other eight regions of Ahvaz. The results showed that the quality of the environment and the level of satisfaction of the citizens of Ahvaz with the third places in the city, in accordance with the local culture of the residents, have a close relationship with the state of these third places (with a factor load of 0.722).
Keywords: Environmental Quality, Third Place, Social Base, Areas of Ahvaz City.
Introduction
The quality of urban spaces significantly impacts the daily lives of residents (Naya et al., 2023, p. 478). Urban planners and designers argue that interactions in urban spaces result from relationships between physical, cultural, social, and aesthetic components (Bagherian et al., 2023, p. 131). Spaces lacking social-physical quality and urban services tend to lead to social avoidance (Viinikka, 2023, p. 56). Considering the need for appropriate background and infrastructure for social activities, it is essential to enhance the quality of the environment (Kashanijo, 2023, p. 69). Creating suitable and desirable spaces for all societal segments is a crucial aspect of urban planning and management (Rajabi Amirabad and Rahmani, 2019, p. 321). Third urban places belong to the public domain and reflect the dynamism and vitality of cities (Hanks, 2020, p. 3). These spaces, characterized by their functional similarities to expected goals and the interactions of social groups within the overall urban structure (Viinikka et al., 2023, p. 57), serve as centers of communication and transformation (Nahiduzzaman et al., 2020, p. 3). As dynamic and lively urban spaces active at various times throughout the day and night, third urban places cater to diverse societal groups (Lee, 2022, p. 1). Therefore, ensuring equal, safe, comfortable, and quality access to these spaces for all city residents is imperative (Mahvari et al., 2020, p. 47). These places constitute the main foundation for social interactions and public life, distinct from the first place (home) and the second place (workplace) (Nasehi et al., 2023, p. 218).
Literature Review
In 2018, Siavashpour et al., in their article entitled "Approaches of Public Spaces of Urban Sociability Derived from the Characteristics of the Third Place," employed a qualitative method and library study by collecting documents. They described the concept of sociable public space and subsequently examined third places and their characteristics as sociable public spaces.
In 2019, Peter John Sandiford reviewed the concept of third places in an article entitled "Third Places as an Evolving Concept for Hospitality Researchers and Managers" and re-evaluated it by integrating hospitality and social concepts. The results indicated that conceptualizing the third place requires the expansion of venues where people can engage in more social interactions, distinct from the first (home) and second (work) places, without ideological constraints.
A general review of the research background highlighted the significant role of third places in fostering social interactions and enhancing the quality of the urban environment. The obtained results underscore the importance of third places in influencing social interactions and improving the quality of urban spaces.
Methodology
This research is based on an applied goal and employs a descriptive-analytical research method grounded in field studies. SPSS software was utilized to analyze the results of the research questionnaire, compare the state of environmental quality in different areas of Ahvaz City using one-way variance analysis, and calculate the prioritization of environmental quality indicators and third urban locations through Friedman's test. Smart PLS software was also used for the Structural Equation Model, which establishes a specific causal structure among a set of unobservable constructs, to identify the factors influencing the role of third urban places on environmental quality, and to assess the degree of influence and importance of these components. The extracted data were instrumental in compiling the final research model.
Results
The value of R² calculated for the third location factor (0.459) and for the environmental quality factor (0.755) is at a suitable level. In analyzing the coefficient of determination of the third place on environmental quality in Ahvaz City, the following can be acknowledged: The third place (independent variable or predictor) accounts for 45.9% of the variance in the environmental quality variable (dependent variable or criterion), indicating a good level of influence. The tested model in the standard mode or PLS algorithm, along with the regression coefficients, is illustrated in Figure 2. The numbers marked on the paths represent the standardized beta coefficients in the regression, indicating the correlation between two indicators and the sample. These coefficients are examined and analyzed to determine the direct effect of one variable on another. The significant difference of these coefficients from zero is crucial, and the significance check of the coefficients (regression coefficient and coefficient of determination) is calculated through self-management (Bootstrapping command).
Figure 2. Analyzing Regression Coefficients, Determination Coefficients, and Path Coefficients across Factors, Variables, and Research Subjects.
According to the p-value (0.001) for the independent or predictor variable (third place) on the dependent variable or criterion (environmental quality), with 95% confidence, it can be stated that the regression coefficient and the determination coefficient are not equal to zero in the statistical population. Therefore, the difference of 0.722 from zero is significant, indicating that the effect of the third place on the quality of the environment in the statistical sample is substantial. Thus, we expect a similarly strong and positive effect in the broader statistical population. The results of the difference in the value of the coefficient in the statistical population, with confidence intervals in the corrected skew state, indicate that with a 95% confidence interval, the coefficient for the third place factor (predictor variable) is between 0.623 and 0.986. There is only a 5% probability that the coefficient is smaller than 0.623 or greater than 0.986. In general, due to the significance of the regression coefficients and the coefficient of determination, we can conclude that six dimensions (morphology, function, perceptual, social, visual, time) influence the third places of Ahvaz City.
Conclusion
According to the results of the analyses and statistical investigations conducted in this research, it can be acknowledged that the quality of the environment and the level of satisfaction of the citizens of Ahvaz with the city's third places have a close relationship with the condition of these third places, as influenced by the local culture (with a factor load of 0.722). The decline in environmental quality due to various factors can significantly impact these third places, which serve as milestones of human societies, centers for gathering people and cultures, and hubs of social relations and interactions.
