Beyond Aesthetic Green Spaces: A Qualitative Study of the Social and Educational Values of Sustainable University Landscapes at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Abstract

Sustainable landscapes in higher education settings offer multifaceted benefits beyond aesthetics, supporting psychological well-being, social cohesion, and experiential learning. This study assesses and analyzes the perception and the experiential social and educational value of these landscapes by the students, staff, and visitors of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Data were gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analyzed via thematic analysis. The findings of this research highlight the fact that the sustainable landscapes of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura promote stress reduction, enhance emotional wellbeing, and aid cognitive recovery, thereby functioning as psychologically restorative environments (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being). The university community became cohesive and informal social interaction was strengthened (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities). The campus community engaged in experiential learning, observation of the campus and curricula integrated landscape of the campuses ecosystems (SDG 15: Life on Land). Restricted aesthetic and ecological design was appreciated for its interpretive design, outdoor classrooms, social interaction pathways, and socially responsible environmental stewardship and learning (SDG 15: Life on Land). The expressive landscaping design of the university altered community perceptions through visual advocacy and enhanced articulated digital community advocacy (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).