Improving place-based health: Innovative use of digital technologies to measure health & wellbeing on University Campus environments

Rice, Louis

Abstract

This research examines the relationship between University campuses and mental wellbeing. The environmental setting of a campus plays a significant role in determining the mental health and wellbeing outcomes of individuals. The peak time for the emergence of mental health difficulties coincides with years spent at University. Despite the prevalence for onset of mental health issues during the period of time spent on campus, there is a lack of detailed research linking the two. Simultaneously, many campuses are now focused on attempting to create a ‘healthy campus’ but there is little clarity or agreement on methodology or evidence-base. This research gathers data using digital technologies such as: fitbits, wearable devices, smartphones and remote sensors to measure levels of mental wellbeing in campus environments. The research creatively utilises digital technologies to examine the inter-relationship between the design of University buildings and the health effects on human users. The research methodology takes a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to data collection, using novel methods for electronic data gathering. The research responds to an existing gap in knowledge around place-based wellbeing and how this is affected by the design and layout of the built environment. The research is significant for advancing evidence-based approaches for improve mental wellbeing on University Campuses.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: Advancing work, health and well-being in rural and urban Malaysia
• Start Date: Sep 21, 2018
• End Date: Sep 25, 2018
• Acceptance Date: Aug 23, 2018
• Publication Date: Sep 23, 2018
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: wellbeing, health, architecture, urban design, University campus, digital technologies
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/860330
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : Advancing work, health and well-being in rural and urban Malaysia