Research Projects

Built-environments (BEs) are physical interventions that provide habitable space and shape human responses. Since the 1960s, surveys and scorecards have been used to measure the quality and effect of the built environment. However, recent developments in neuroscientific equipment have allowed researchers to conduct subjective research in non-laboratory setups, allowing for more accurate observations. Emerging empirical theories and approaches in neuroscience have expanded our understanding of human behavior in both physical and virtual environments. This study aims to use non-invasive mobile Electroencephalography (EEG)-based neuro-feedback to construct, evaluate, and validate a data-driven framework for built environment evaluation criteria focused on identifying and measuring Built Environment Variables (BEVs) that can influence or enhance cognitive behavior in academic learning spaces. The study will involve students recording their EEG responses to different built-environment stimuli, building on the common grounds of Attention Restoration Theory and Stress Reduction Theory. The study aims to formulate recommendations for improving design criteria of learning spaces within academic campuses prioritizing cognitive behavior and amplify ongoing research in the built environment and cognitive science domains. The project's outcome will lead to well-defined built environment guidelines, helping policymakers in framing academic campus-design policies for enhanced cognitive skill development of students.