Patil, M. P.; Salama, A. M.; Arnfield, J. and Alvanides, S. (2026) Youwalk-youreclaim: A co-assessment approach for active university campus environments. Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, 15(5), pp. 1663-1694. ISSN 2046-6099
Abstract
Purpose – This article introduces the "YouWalk-YouReclaim" mobile application as a transformative tool aimed at co-assessing and enhancing campus environments in a post-pandemic context. It seeks to address the need for inclusive, dynamic and technology-driven spaces within university settings. Design/methodology/approach – The study employs a comprehensive assessment framework through a case study at Northumbria University, Newcastle. It involves over 100 students from diverse fields who utilised the application to evaluate significant areas on campus, such as Student Central, Northumberland Road and the Northumbria Library. The methodology places emphasis on direct user engagement and the use of the application's inbuilt-image library and visual documentation features. Findings – The application effectively evaluated the functionality, spatial dynamics and user experiences across various campus spaces. Key findings include the importance of adaptability, personalised spaces and enhanced wayfinding to meet the evolving needs of the university community. The study also noted the potential of the app to facilitate multidimensional assessments and support user-centric improvements. Practical implications – The findings suggest that institutions can leverage technology like the "YouWalk-YouReclaim" app to better understand and optimise their campus spaces, fostering more responsive, user-focused and sustainable environments. The study advocates continuous technological enhancements and user-centred assessments to cultivate efficient and enriching campus experiences. Originality/value – This study is novel in its integration of digital technology with user-centred approaches to assess and enhance campus environments. By enabling real-time feedback and inclusive participation, "YouWalk-YouReclaim" exemplifies an innovative approach to campus space management.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | campus built environment; co-assessment; digital assessment tools; mobile application; participatory methods; user-centred interventions |
| Index terms: | pandemic, built environment, case study, digital technology, integration, methodology, mobile application, documentation, functionality, wayfinding, adaptability, dynamics, user experience, user engagement |
| Subjects: | user-centered design, building performance, design methods, computing systems, organizational analysis, innovation and technology management, infrastructure and transport systems, data collection methods, professional development, user focus, health risk and incident analysis, systems engineering, design features, research methods |
| Topics: | Urban Studies, Design Practice, Organizational Design, Information Management, Engineering Principles, Health and Safety, Research Practice, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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