Using photovoice to foster a student vision for natural spaces on a college campus in the Pacific Northwest United States. Issue 3 (3rd May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reese, Ryan F.; Seitz, Christopher M.; Gosling, Marjorie; Craig, Hannah
• Is Part Of: International journal of environmental health research. Volume 30:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 296
• Page End: 311
• Publication Date: 2020-05-03
• Subjects: Campus planning -- college health -- greenspace -- photovoice -- undergraduate student health; Environmental health -- Periodicals; 363.7
• DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1593950
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-3123

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Undergraduate students face a host of stressors and may be particularly susceptible to encountering health-related challenges throughout college life. Seventy-two ( N = 72) undergraduate students enrolled at a newly developed university campus located in the pacific northwest United States used the photovoice research method in crafting a vision for how natural spaces on campus might be maintained and minimally developed to promote student health. Five student-created themes emerged: 1) mental and physical health, 2) developing community spaces, 3) sustainable infrastructure design, 4) preserving natural habitat and history of the region, and 5) addressing issues related to homelessness. Initial evidence suggests that many aspects of the student vision may be incorporated into future campus environmental planning efforts. Additional research is needed in determining whether community-based greenspace planning on college campuses can positively impact the extent to which students access natural spaces for the purposes of alleviating stress and promoting health.