Students’ Perceptions of Campus Green Open Space Patronage in a Nigerian University

Abstract

Utilizing green spaces within educational institutions has become essential for improving overall student performance. These open green areas play a pivotal role in enhancing students’ academic achievement by promoting their physical and emotional well‐being and creating opportunities for engagement. Moreover, the environmental and ecological advantages of green spaces on campuses align with their positive impacts in reducing temperature, lowering air and noise pollution, and mitigating the effects of urban heat islands. This research investigated students’ perceptions of green spaces on the campus of the Federal University of Technology in Akure, Nigeria, and how these perceptions impact patronage. The study utilized a quantitative method by distributing structured questionnaires to 450 participants through a stratified random sampling technique. Research assistants handed out hard copies of the questionnaires to students, and 440 students, a response rate of 98%, ultimately participated in the survey. The results indicate that the most significant aspect of students’ perceptions of green open spaces related to the availability of restrooms, whereas the accessibility of green spaces was emphasized the least. The study’s conclusion incorporates a conversation about employing “low‐tech” approaches to ensure the effective utilization of campus green spaces. The research suggests that university planners and administrators should prioritize the establishment and upkeep of open green areas.