Unlocking student satisfaction with campus. The role of availability and accessibility of informal learning spaces
Higher Education Research and Development, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/07294360.2026.2670667
- Journal Name: Higher Education Research and Development
- Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, EBSCO Education Source, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Psycinfo, Social Science Premium Collection (ProQuest), Education Collection (ProQuest), Education Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
- Keywords: accessibility, availability, campus satisfaction, informal learning spaces, Student satisfaction
- Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The possibility of learning anytime and anywhere has accelerated the importance of informal learning spaces (ILS) at universities. A study at four European universities examined (1) the usage of ILS on and off campus for different learning activities, (2) differences between sociodemographic groups with regard to the perceived satisfaction of ILS for focused and collaborative learning activities, (3) the influence of sociodemographic factors as well as availability and accessibility of ILS on student satisfaction with campus, and (4) perceived barriers in context of available and accessible ILS. Methodologically, a mixed-methods approach was integrated combining a quantitative student survey with qualitative focus groups. Quantitative data from 932 participants reveal that sociodemographic aspects, like gender, age, study degree or facing personal challenges, do not influence perceptions of satisfaction with ILS for focused and collaborative learning activities. As a key finding from the student survey, it can be summarized that availability and accessibility of ILS contribute positively and significantly to student satisfaction with campus. Beyond construction and design improvements of ILS, insights from qualitative focus groups with students and lecturers state especially the importance of organizational aspects, like providing better information and communication to enhance the availability and accessibility of ILS on campus.