Using Space Syntax to Assess the Built Environment for Physical Activity: Applications to Research on Parks and Public Open Spaces |
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| Authors: | Mohammad Javad Koohsari Gavin R. Mcormack Takemi Sugiyama |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Melbourne School of Design University of Melbourne Melbourne, VIC, Australia;2. McCaughey VicHealth Centre for Community Wellbeing Melbourne School of Population and Global Health University of Melbourne Melbourne, VIC, Australia;3. Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute Melbourne, VIC, Australia;4. Department of Community Health Sciences University of Calgary Calgary, AB, Canada;5. Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute Melbourne, VIC, Australia |
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| Abstract: | The application of space syntax as a method for examining the role of spatial configuration on people's behavior has been widespread in several disciplines, such as urban design and architecture. However, the ideas and procedures of space syntax have rarely been applied in studies within the field of public health or leisure studies. This article briefly introduces the principles of space syntax and describes how space syntax can extend previous knowledge regarding associations between the built environment and physical activity with specific applications to research on parks and public open spaces. |
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| Keywords: | parks physical activity public health public open space space syntax spatial configuration urban design |
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