Enhancing Social Qualities in University Campus Outdoor Spaces through Islamic Spatial Configurations: The Case of the American University in Cairo

Abstract

Universities are under more pressure than ever before to attract more students and move up in rankings. Due to bounded space and rising plot values in city areas, a spatial configuration that meets user needs has become a very important topic for well-prepared and spatially suitable educational settings. However, today there is a rapid pace in the establishment of universities in Egypt. Insufficient use of university campus outdoor spaces (UCOS) is considered one of the main negative impacts on social quality in these universities in Egypt. This study aims to evaluate the social qualities according to the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS in The American University in Cairo (AUC). The research is based on using integrated observational and computational methods in different UCOS. Observational methods are applied through behavioral mapping and movement tracing. Computational methods are applied through space syntax software. The AUC campus is selected as a case study because its design is based on different types of UCOS. The methodology follows three successive steps. Firstly, a field observation of the most used UCOS was undertaken. Secondly, a spatial analysis examining the potential effect of the campus spatial configuration was conducted. Finally, a comparative analytical approach that illustrates the relationship between Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS and activity categories according to user behaviors was taken. The research shows the considered types of UCOS and their ranking according to the observational and computational methods that achieve the highest values for social qualities.

1. Introduction

Outdoor spaces are defined as unroofed spaces formed largely by the interaction between human’s experience of the space and its connection to the outdoor environment [1,2]. Outdoor spaces are essential physical aspects of university campuses, as community-oriented spaces in which students can meet, interact, and relax, resulting in academic and personal growth. Moreover, these spaces are critical for enhancing the university’s quality of life [3,4]. The direct relationship between the university campus outdoor space (UCOS) design and its effect on campus life plays a major role in university design [5]. These spaces were intended to encourage an intellectual and social environment while also providing a comfortable setting for informal gatherings and activities [6]. Most current universities are built as separate enclaves with the idea that academic life needs isolation, quietness, and concentration, as argued for campus design and its relationship to its university campus outdoor spaces (UCOS) [7]. Design methods that meet the needs of users on university campuses are becoming more and more important with the rapid growth of universities in Egypt. The current trend in new universities is to set up campuses outside the city center in suburban areas so that students can learn in well-equipped spaces. This is due to the limited space in the city center and the high cost of land [8,9]. The outdoor spaces aim to create a rich and supportive environment with mixed-use facilities to enhance the educational and residential aspects of campus life [10,11].

This research will discuss the importance of the social qualities in the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS, given its absence in the design of Egyptian universities despite its importance in traditional architecture. This research will also consider the evolution of spatial design patterns in regions where Islam is the predominant religion of several in the region, versus some design rules that explicitly come from the Holy Quran [12]. The only university campus that has used Islamic spatial configurations is the AUC. However, new university designs based on UCOS in Egypt on Islamic spatial configurations are becoming more popular.

Recent studies have not conducted an integrated study [13,14,15,16,17] regarding the effect of Islamic spatial configurations on the social qualities of UCOS. This research evaluated the influence of Islamic spatial configurations on social qualities using space syntax analysis. The study concluded that different patterns of Islamic spatial configurations had an effect on users according to observational studies through behavioral mapping and movement tracing techniques. The scope of this research is limited to discussing the analysis and evaluating the Islamic spatial configurations of the suburban axial university campus with an area of 290 acres in a hot desert climate region in Egypt.

This research contributes to the field of urban design by applying integrated methods (quantitative and qualitative) for the collection and analysis of empirical data. The combination of methods consisted of the following: (1) a space syntax analysis of UCOS in order to understand which outdoor spaces have high or low connectivity and integration for users according to the Islamic spatial configurations; (2) the relationship between Islamic spatial configurations and the quantification of the primary data that represents users’ interactions, collected using field observational method information in UCOS; and (3) quantitative data on observational and computational method findings. The objective of this study was to assist decision makers in the design and retrofitting of new UCOS by considering social qualities in Islamic spatial configurations to increase social life in Egyptian universities.

This research used qualitative and quantitative methods, including a literature review, computational analysis, and observational studies methods. The research defines the activity categories in Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS. Then, the research describes the main physical aspect principles of spatial configuration and the space syntax analysis of UCOS spatial configuration. The research selected The American University in Cairo (AUC) as a case study, and three UCOS (Q1, P1, and Q2) were chosen along the main axial pathway and were defined as UCOS spatial configurations. The research simulated the Islamic spatial configuration of UCOS using DepthmapX as a tool in space syntax software and evaluated social qualities through field observation. It compared and analyzed the results of the three spaces and shows the most significant findings regarding space syntax for the three UCOS. The research shows the Islamic spatial configuration that most affects users through the results of observational qualitative studies (behavior mapping and movement tracing). The research also shows the quantitative percentage of observational and computational methods and the most important social qualities that most affect the Islamic spatial configuration of UCOS. Finally, the research highlights conclusions and recommendations for future work. Figure 1 shows the research methodology and framework.

2. Literature Review

2.1. The Effect of Islamic Spatial Configurations on Social Quality in UCOS

The design of a university campus is offered as an example of how the integration of humanity within the urban environment may be achieved via the use of spatial design patterns in outdoor spaces [18,19]. Alexander [20] explained that the hierarchy of outdoor spaces, from public to private, is an essential characteristic for enhancing transitional interactive space. This characteristic is vital in designing Islamic spatial configuration, which can be defined in the planning of contemporary Islamic architecture (transitional spaces or intermediate transformations) [21] as shown in Figure 2. It uses the transitional interactive space that connects indoor spaces (buildings) with outdoor spaces, such as arcades, stair seats, corridors, etc. [22]. Arcades can be defined as covered walkways at building edges that are half inside and partly outside, influencing how people interact with buildings [20]. Stair seats are elevated areas consisting of steps on the edge of buildings where people gather and sit. Intersections or corridors are spaces between buildings that provide access to UCOS. These spaces greatly affect interactions and social activities between users and determine their behavior due to the gradation of these spaces from public to private, such as the quads and central plazas on university campuses [23], as shown in

Table 1. Shows patterns of Islamic spatial configurations that are compatible with UCOS to enhance its effects and provide the foundation of its spatial identity. Source: adapted and photography by researchers retrieved from [12,13,20].

Items		Sketches	Social Qualities	Defining
The edge of the buildings	Arcades			It is a series of arches supported by columns, and is an architectural design pattern in Islamic architecture and Islamic garden design [20,24]. It consists of an arched passage and solid wall (buildings) open on at least one side and a covered passage providing access to the UCOS. These spaces allow students to move from educational buildings to outdoor spaces [25].
	Stair seats			Stair seats are an important structural component in spatial design. They serve as a link between UCOS and buildings and are also a very important pattern in architectural visual design [26]. The outdoor gathering spaces are surrounded by pockets of activity—small, semi-enclosed areas at the edge of the buildings which jut out into the UCOS between the axial pathways and contain activities that make it natural for people to pause, interact, and participate [20].
Intersections/Corridors				As the space where pedestrian movements converge, intersections or corridors are an important part of campus design. A well-designed intersection covers both transportation and safety needs and provides opportunities to enhance outdoor spaces [20,27].
Movement in central plaza (Axial pathway)				The axial pathway with double-loaded buildings. The central plaza, which is the most important and essential UCOS and provides the campus heart or focal point, is hard-paved and offers passive relaxation [28]. It may include any or all of the other UCOS types and is thus the most dynamic [29].
Movement in quad (Axial pathway)				The axial pathway with single-loaded buildings. Campus quads are the most prominent natural/green UCOS for passive recreational and campus entrances through multifunctional greeneries. Quads are typically used to ensure a key pedestrian path across a lawn/garden connecting buildings and to provide important landscaped outdoors. Modern quads resemble historical monastic cloister gardens called garths, which are surrounded by covered arcades or cloisters [30]. This design instructs you to open up outdoor spaces and greenery provides excellent views at one end. At this size, the square itself functions as a type of backyard, from which a person might look out over a much greater space [20].

. The study distinguishes quads from courtyards: quads are defined as an external space surrounded by two buildings or more that can be open from one side or more, while courtyards serve only one building and are closed on all sides. Courtyards symbolize paradise in Islamic architecture. The central plaza hosts university activities and is shared by numerous academic and social facilities. These spaces are different in size to provide students, faculty, and staff with more effective and attractive spaces [15,20]. The patterns of Islamic spatial configurations which correspond to UCOS to form the basis of their spatial identity are shown in Table 1.

2.2. Defining Activity Categories in Islamic Spatial Configurations of UCOS

Islamic spatial configurations in UCOS cover a large part of the university campus and are designed to support social activities and interactions among students and other users. Some previous studies [7,9] evaluated the relationship between spatial configuration and user behavior through quantitatively evaluating and mapping user behavior (behavioral mapping and movement tracing) [16]. This paper focuses on Islamic spatial configurations as UCOS for their spatial potentiality and the extent to which Islamic spatial configurations influence the behavior of users. It also reclassifies the activity categories in UCOS, including interactions, standing, walking, sitting, and waiting [31]. Central library spaces are seen as formal; however, they are placed in their own category, which is evaluated for user spaces. The relationship between the patterns of Islamic spatial configurations and activity categories are described in Hillier’s [32] concept that the built environment is essentially embodied in social activities and functionality. Hillier [32] added that spatial configurations influence the mode of movement, social encounters, and co-presence, which in turn affect the patterns of interactions and activities [31].

2.3. A Theoretical Framework for Physical Aspect Principles and Indicators

According to recent studies [33,34,35] and as shown in more detail below, these concepts and their associated indicators were used to develop a conceptual framework for measuring UCOS in the case study. A widely discussed important concept is “accessibility”, which requires the UCOS to provide amenities and services that are accessible to users of all ages and genders [36]. A “mixed-use” pattern of development is essential when a diverse land-use configuration can effectively provide a variety of UCOS types, facilities, services, and mobility alternatives. This results in a vibrant public realm where users are encouraged to participate in daily social interactions [37]. The definition of “density” is the ratio of the total number of UCOS users to the total area [37], as shown in

Table 2. The theoretical principles and indicators regarding the physical aspects of UCOS and measurement tools. Source: retrieved from [15,35] and adapted by researchers.

Principles	Indicators	Quantitative Measures
Density	Tracing user numbers from observational maps, static snapshots, and OpenStreetMap.	Using field observation. St per 1 m2 [15]
Accessibility	- Provide mixed-use environments with a variety of amenities that are accessible to all. - An increased sense of security. - Spaces that are well-connected and simple to navigate, and connected roadways that are friendly to pedestrians and cyclists. - Easy access to services and parks as recreational and leisure facilities [38].	Using field observation [8].
Mixed-use	Availability of more versatile campus outdoor spaces that are able to provide different types of social activities. More mixed-use, higher social interaction, and activity category diversity among users [35].	Using field observation. The mixed-use percentage is calculated based on the total number of different uses/total number of educational buildings on the campus [35].

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2.4. Space Syntax Analysis of UCOS Islamic Spatial Configuration

Hillier and Hanson [39] explain that space syntax is a theory and method for analyzing the spatial configuration of UCOS. Space syntax was empirically tested in various UCOS and across different scales. Space syntax analysis provides an explanation for how the concept of the spatial design pattern of UCOS reflects a social quality or cultural significance [20,40]. The social significance of space is identified by space syntax analysis and explains the relationship of each outdoor space to the other spaces around [41,42]. Through using the principle of spatial cognition, there are three major spatial division techniques for DepthmapX: axial line, visibility graph analysis (VGA), and gate count analysis. This method is used to understand the effect of spatial configuration on UCOS and links the results to understanding human behavior and societal processes [43,44]. The studies investigated the social effects of patterns of space use, spatial configuration, and mobility on: (1) interactions between users and the quality of UCOS; (2) the interaction between campus life and UCOS; and (3) the social qualities of UCOS [40,45].

3. Methods and Materials

The study was conducted at The American University in Cairo (AUC) as a case study in Egypt. The study analyzed (UCOS) by multi-dimensional analysis. The study focused on observational studies and DepthmapX as a tool in space syntax software. The observation mapping and syntax analysis methods used by Ozbil et al. [46,47] are used in this research as an integrated approach to identify strengths and weaknesses in designing Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS. Space syntax was used for visual integration, connectivity, and gate count analyses in the spatial configuration analysis [48]. These computer simulations were undertaken in selected UCOS to evaluate existing spatial configurations. User activities were observed and distributed to track user behavior mapping using observational studies. Figure 3 shows the study’s integrated methods.

3.1. Observational Studies

Field observation is defined as the process of collecting data through observation and is divided into 2 parts [47]. The first part involves tracking social qualities in UCOS, and the second part involves drawing maps to observe users in the study area by movement tracing and behavioral mapping [7]. The maps are divided into stationary behavior (standing and sitting) and moving behavior (walking) [49]. Several previous studies [50,51] indicated and identified 5 social qualities that affect the use of outdoor spaces, which are:

(1)

The effectiveness and diversity of social activities in UCOS.

(2)

Diversity of users in UCOS.

(3)

The design of the surrounding buildings and the degree of enclosure.

(4)

Accessibility to pedestrian movement lanes.

(5)

Density of vegetation cover and elements of tree planting and shading.

Behavioral Mapping and Movement Tracing

Behavioral mapping is a systematic method of observation and is an effective technique for recording the static and moving activities of people and social interactions in outdoor spaces [3]. People-centered maps aim to record social tasks and activities with cartography to record outdoor space-use patterns [52]. Movement tracing enables the tracking and mapping of group flow dynamics by selecting a specific area to obtain qualitative data by observing the movement of users. This method helps us to understand movement patterns and how people move in the spaces, such as how people are likely to enter/exit the area [53]. Observers are stationed in a designated area to record static and moving activities and people’s movements for an hour at specific moments during 6 h throughout the day. The movements of people within a defined space are plotted as movement lines on the selected study area diagram. The observational technique helps to classify the types of Islamic spatial configurations [54].

3.2. Computational Method: Space Syntax Analysis

Space syntax is used to analyze the spatial configuration of different geometric patterns to study the outdoor spaces between buildings using DepthmapX [44]. DepthmapX is an open-source and multi-platform spatial analysis software for spatial networks of various scales, including buildings and outdoor spaces [55]. This study uses paths and spaces defined in the current urban design of the university campus. This scenario will help in the case of retrofitting UCOS development which analyzes each outdoor space. Visibility graph analysis (VGA) and axial maps were performed through 2 processes [47]. Firstly, traced urban plans were created by drawing the ground floor of the buildings and the boundaries of the outdoor spaces using ‘AutoCAD 2021’ software. They were exported as DXF files then imported into DepthmapX version 0.50 as a space syntax tool. Secondly, the resolution of the grid for analysis was determined by using a 2 m × 2 m module; this resolution was considered a good resolution that can positively affect VGA analysis and gives more accurate results during analysis [56].

In this study, the occupancy pattern, visual properties, and connected lines of UCOS were investigated using DepthmapX as a graphical representation of the space syntax method by applying the following 3 processes:

• Visibility graph analysis (VGA)
• Agent simulation (gate count analysis)
• Axial maps

3.2.1. Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA)

This study was developed by Turner et al. [57] and is a method for calculating several points in a system of spatial relations based on space syntax theory and some previous studies on fields of vision [58]. Visibility analysis is undertaken in outdoor spaces to determine how visibility affects mobility and helps users to obtain a better sense of their surroundings [59]. The DepthmapX tool for visibility analysis was used to look at the depth of the visual areas in outdoor spaces and to determine where users could see the most [60]. The study focused on the term (VGA), which can mean a variety of different types of analysis, such as:

Visual connectivity, which is defined as the visual relationship between each outdoor space and its adjacent space. This analysis is used to measure the number of spaces that are observed from the point center [47].

Visual integration, which is defined as the ability to see a space from any surrounding visual point inside the spatial configuration. In other words, it concerns how the space plays a central role in the entire spatial configuration system. Spatial integration is defined as an integrated space that requires the least number of steps to reach adjacent spaces or a separate space that requires the highest number of steps to reach adjacent spaces, which is another concept related to visual integration [6,39].

3.2.2. Agent Simulation: Gate Count Analysis

Gate count analysis is an individual simulation movement, as agents were distribute throughout a spatial system that decides its movement pattern according to the visual field created by the visibility analysis [47,61]. Agents are precomputed into the visualization range from any pattern of singulars within specified spatial configurations or relations [62]. The outdoor space is separated into a grid shape showing the experiment’s resolution and is encoded with blue (for low values) and red (for high values) [63]. In all charts, red refers to the maximum value and blue refers to the minimum value. The percentage of gate counts is calculated by dividing the maximum number of movement flows by the total number of movement flows.

3.2.3. Axial Maps

The axial line is the longest line of sight, indicating the path of movement within a defined space within the urban spatial configuration. Each axial line represents a space that is connected to other spaces [64]. An axial map shows all possible lines of sight in all areas that can be reached in a built environment. The axial maps study shows how well each sightline in a spatial system fits in with all the other sightlines [44,65]. The space with a high connection value requires the largest number of connections to its surroundings, while the space with a low connection value requires the least number of connections. The axial map analysis examines the movement pathways’ degrees of (inter)connectivity in spatial configuration [13].

Connectivity is defined as a static local measurement performance and it represents all the direct connections that connect each pathway with the paths directly adjacent to it [66]. The percentage of axial line connectivity is calculated by dividing the maximum number of connected lines by the total number of lines.

3.3. Case Study Context (The American University in Cairo)

The American University in Cairo (AUC) was selected as a case study because it is the first university in Egypt designed in terms of shape and space in the style of Islamic architecture [67]. The urban design of the university campus differs from other universities in Egypt because it has an independent axial urban fabric surrounded by all the educational and other buildings that are aligned along the main axial path and connected to all outdoor spaces, such as a central plaza and quads. The AUC campus combines Islamic architectural features with modern design [68]. The campus is designed to enhance interaction and enrich university life within this campus, which is the center of cultural, social, and intellectual life in the Arab world. It is the only university campus in Egypt that is fully embarking on social activities and interactions in UCOS [69].

The AUC New Cairo was established in 2008 and is situated on a 290-acre plot of land, 10 km east along the 90th Road, the gateway to New Cairo from the Ring Road, and 9 km south of the Cairo–Suez Highway [70]. The campus provides every facility and amenity required to encourage academic growth and participation in social, cultural, and sporting activities among students. The campus design and planning are inspired by the complex urbanism of Islamic cities [71]. As shown in Figure 4, the urban architecture of the campus comprises several condensed groups of buildings oriented along a central axial pathway connecting with outdoor spaces, such as a central plaza and quadrangles, designed to accommodate 5500 full-time students and 1500 faculty and staff [72].

Defining Islamic Spatial Configuration of UCOS in AUC

The campus has an urban setting that is enclosed by gates and also has what is known as an “autonomous axial urban fabric”. The axial urban fabric surrounded by buildings is used to focus vision on one destination point and to control pedestrian movement [73]. The contemporary layout includes rectilinear buildings that were dynamically created and placed on private property at various points [74]. In addition to the main ring road, there are UCOS for parking, athletics, gardening, and student gatherings that link the campus buildings [67]. Due to the steeply sloping terrain of the campus, the buildings and UCOS are at various elevations. There are gaps between some of the buildings and the distances between levels vary. However, walking is discouraged in some spaces, especially those that offer little shade, such as the central plaza [75]. There are several outdoor gathering spaces for students and other users on campus. Three UCOS were selected for this study (quadrangles (Q1), (Q2), central plaza P1). The campus quadrangle spaces (Q1) and (Q2) are secondary plazas consisting of 4 sides of the surrounding buildings, one of which overlooks an external garden along the main axial path and is accessible through the adjoining corridors, as shown in

Table 3. Summary of the characteristics of the selected UCOS. Source: adapted by researchers retrieved from [67].

UCOS Type	Quadrangle (Q1)	Bartlett Plaza (P1)	Quadrangle (Q2)
Total Area m2	4830	10,170	3485
Accessibility and Mixed-use	- Campus Center - Central Plaza (P1) - Athletic Facilities - Student Housing - Student Parking	- Main Library - School of Engineering - School of Business - UCOS (Q1/Q2) - Core Academic Center - Student Parking	- School of Engineering - Core Academic Center - School of Humanities - Administrative building - Central Plaza (P1) - Student Parking
Movement in UCOS	Axial pathway with single-loaded buildings	Axial pathway with double-loaded buildings	Axial pathway with single-loaded buildings
Typology uses	Events/Activities	Events/Activities	Activities
Vegetation m²	150	800	1185
Shading area m²	820	1160	520
Corridors m²	1720	1875	1800
Degree of enclosure	An outdoor space surrounded by several buildings (enclosure ratio = 2:1) Threshold enclosure	Minimum enclosure for aggregated gathering spaces along an axial pathway (enclosure ratio = 3:1)	An outdoor space surrounded by several buildings (enclosure ratio = 1:1) Full enclosure

. These spaces act as common gathering places to encourage interaction and social activities. Bartlett Plaza (P1) is a large rectangular central plaza that connects all of the other secondary plazas, known as the heart of campus. It is located in the middle of the main axial path and serves as a place for gathering and community engagement. These outdoor spaces were chosen according to their location and frequency of use. These spaces are frequently utilized by students and are situated between the campus’s most important academic buildings, as shown in Figure 5.

4. Results and Analysis

This study aims to evaluate the social qualities according to the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS in AUC. The objectives of the study have been achieved by means of (1) computational studies through space syntax analysis; (2) observational studies through behavioral mapping and movement tracing; and (3) quantitative data through observational and computational findings. The data obtained in this study are shown in this section.

4.1. Computational Studies: Space Syntax Analysis

4.1.1. Axial Map (Connectivity)

The main axial pathway represents both a visual line and a state of mobility. It is the best way of moving and the way users move instinctively. The higher the connectivity value of a space is, the higher its permeability is in practical space systems. The axial line map shows one collection of connectivity lines for the academic area of the campus (red): first, the axial route begins in Q2, continues through P1, and ends at Q1. The greater the integration of an axial line is, the higher its accessibility will be from all other segments. Due to the dominant position of this path (regarding accessibility), its social activity categories are significantly higher. Figure 6 shows that the region between the School of Business, Economics, and Communication (BEC) and the School of Science and Engineering has moderate axial connectivity values (yellow, green).

The analytics explain the movement of people within the campus and the value of the connectivity that is highly influenced by the urban pattern in UCOS. The highest connectivity values occur along the main axial path and the intersections between the various buildings and the most connected outdoor space to each adjacent space (P1), and the lowest values occur in (Q1).

4.1.2. Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA) and Gate Count Analysis

The gate count analysis indicates that users prefer the main axial route over the circulation pathway. The two major gathering areas are quite active, particularly in the center, where sightlines are strongest. Smaller, clustered areas have low visibility, which may also explain their lack of connectivity (blue). Figure 7 shows that the VGA study reveals that the majority of this region has a high value of visual integration and connectivity, with the majority of this integration happening in the center (red and yellow). However, the quad entrances are visually isolated from the surrounding region (blue), making it more difficult to locate. In the arcades, visibility is limited (blue) due to obstructions (walls) that block the view.

The VGA for P1 in Figure 8 shows that the highest visual integration and connectivity happen along the main axial pathway (red and yellow). The most well-connected and integrated part of P1 is the main gathering space, which is also the largest space. The degree of connectivity and integration between the second-largest gathering area and the rest of P1 is moderate (yellow, green). This is due to the fact that much of this area is partitioned off from the primary pedestrian path by barriers (walls), which can explain why this is the case (spine). Since the intersections and the arcades are more confined, there is a moderate level of connectivity between these areas and the green and cyan surroundings they are in. The difference in connectivity and visual integration that exists between the various parts of P1 has the potential to result in an imbalance in the plaza’s occupancy rates. An analysis of P1’s gate count indicated the existence of a hierarchy in the degree of movement. Since it offers higher vision fields, the main axial pathway is often chosen by users. The one space where most users are congregating (central plaza) also shows a high level of movement (red and yellow), especially in the middle of the space, which is where the lines of sight are the longest. The region around the edges (arcades) has low visibility, which would explain why there is so little movement between them (blue).

The VGA for Q2 in Figure 9 indicates high visual integration over the whole space and the highest connectivity in the middle (red, yellow). The permeability and lack of barriers in the space provide high visual integration (HH) and connectivity at all intersections. The agent simulation (gate count) showed that there was a hierarchy in the degree of movement. There are too many (red and yellow) users moving through the gates and space in the middle of the area. The number of users increases in the middle and reduces towards the edge of the buildings, where there are fewer movements (blue).

4.1.3. Findings of Space Syntax Analysis for Defined Paths and Spaces

The main findings of the research highlight the aspects affecting the social quality of UCOS and the importance of these spaces from user perspectives. The VGA of the selected UCOS shows that the central plaza (P1) is the most visually connected and has the highest integration with the rest of the campus. This is followed by (Q2), and (Q1) is the least connected and integrated. The results of the gate count analysis showed that the central plaza is the densest because it experiences high mixed-use, followed by (Q2). (Q1) is the least dense (low mixed-use). The results of the axial maps analysis confirm the results of the visibility analysis, indicating that the axial line showed the highest levels of axial connectivity in the Bartlett Plaza (Q1) and then (Q2). These outdoor spaces were the most permeable and accessible from several intersections and Q1 showed the lowest level of axial line connectivity, which is the least permeable, as shown in

Table 4. Summary of the most significant findings regarding space syntax for the three UCOS.

UCOS	VGA		Axial Map (Connectivity)	Gate Count Analysis
	(Connectivity)	(Visual Integration)
Q1	Moderate at the main intersection point and low along the edges of the buildings		Low connectivity	All UCOS have a low density
Bartlett Plaza (P1)	High in the axial and edge of the buildings	High in axial and moderate at the edge of the buildings	High connectivity in axial pathway	High density in the axial pathway and intersections
Q2	High in the axial and edge of the buildings	Low at the edges of the buildings and high in the axial pathway	High connectivity in the axial pathway	Moderate density in the axial pathway

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4.2. Observation Mapping: Behavioral Mapping and Movement Tracing

The activities of users that utilize spaces across UCOS at various times of the day were monitored so that we could analyze these audiences’ spaces and periods [76,77]. Bartlett Plaza can be considered as the heart of the campus. This is because it has the largest concentration of students and other users who are either moving from one location to another, socializing, promoting student group activities, or raising awareness on specific issues. However, the plaza’s busiest period was at 09:30 in the morning followed by 3:30 in the afternoon during the assembly hour. Students and other users often congregate on the elevated platforms (stair seats) that are located in UCOS. These staging elements also serve as seating components. Throughout the course of the day, a variety of activities may be seen taking space on the elevated staging areas, which are one of the main characteristics that help define the Bartlett Plaza. Bartlett’s submerged area is the defining characteristic of the plaza; without furniture (granite cubes, chairs), this space is not often used for social interaction. It is often used as a location for organized events and promotions.

The movement tracing excludes activities that require natural movements (e.g., sports, physical challenges, etc.) [76,78] Thus, the illustrated graph in Figure 10 portrays the count of users moving, meeting, and encountering each other within different campus UCOS in Q1, P1, and Q2. The warmer color gradient reflects denser movements, the colder color gradient reflects medium-density movements, and the graph is logged to clarify variations. The green color gradient reflects less dense movements, the colder color gradient reflects medium-density movements, and the graph is logged to clarify variations. The movement is faster in the spine (quads (Q1, Q2), and central plaza P1) and in intersections between buildings. Contrarily, movements are relatively scarce on the edges of the buildings, such as the arcades (allocated in Q2, P1, and relatively less in quad Q1).

Qualitative Data of Behavioral Mapping Findings

It is inferred that certain Islamic spatial configurations are attractors for social activities, such as the arcades and stair seats. However, a single activity spreads across different transitional spaces (walking). This is further clarified in

Table 5. Heatmap showing the diversity of activity categories is shown across the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS.

	Patterns of Islamic Spatial Configurations and Activity Categories (09:30 a.m.–03:30 p.m.)
Islamic Spatial Configurations	Arcades	92	29	63	87	44	315	1368	23.0	UCOS (Q2)	Count
	Stair Seats	68	15	86	20		189		13.8		660
	Corridors	84	33	188	37	52	394		28.8
	Axial Pathway	50	32	285	56	47	470		34.4
	Arcades	266	51	155	236	165	873	3202	27.3	UCOS (P1)
	Stair Seats	89	35	25	84	78	311		9.73
	Corridors	218	32	354	14	103	721		22.5
	Axial Pathway	198	68	656	169	90	1181		36.83
	Main Library	42	13	18	9	34	116		3.64
	Arcades	36	3	22	46	33	140	802	17.46	UCOS (Q1)
	Stair Seats	45	5	33	32	24	139		17.33
	Corridors	20	14	125		15	174		21.70
	Axial Pathway	98	21	175	32	23	349		43.51		3
		Interactions	Standing	Walking	Sitting	Waiting	Total values	Total values of UCOS	Percentage %

which uses the same dataset to compare the frequency of each activity category in each Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS using a colored gradient. Warmer colors are denser activities in the heatmap. Islamic spatial configurations accommodate more diverse activities in UCOS (P1) than those in (Q1, Q2). P1 tends to attract most users due to its high mixed-use, accessibility, and density. Conversely, Q1 has the lowest number of users. These results explain user behavior in UCOS. According to previous literature [44], users tend to use the P1 to participate in various activities and interact the most on the edge of the buildings and stair seats.

The results of a field observation study conducted in UCOS indicate that walking constitutes the highest percentage in the activity category along the axial pathway. The central plaza represents the highest value among the three spaces (P1), followed by (Q2) and then (Q1), respectively. This is due to the lack of shaded areas and spaces to sit in each of these areas, the lack of green space, and the fact that they are the most accessible through corridors. The highest value of social interactions between students and other users and sitting activity categories occurs in the arcades and outdoor stairsteps attached to the edge of the buildings as they are social gathering areas for students and other users. The Bartlett Plaza represents the highest value among the three spaces (P1), then (Q2), and (Q1) is the lowest due to the lack of buildings, as shown in Figure 11.

4.3. Quantitative Data: Observational and Computational Findings

The results indicate that P1 has the highest value for gate count analysis, density, accessibility, and connectivity. Q1 has the lowest value for gate count analysis, density, accessibility, and connectivity as shown in Figure 11. The chart illustrates the percentage of gate count (12.7%) in Q1, followed by the density (19.1%), connectivity (45.5%), and accessibility (39.5%). The percentage in Q2 increased to 37.3% in gate count and to 47% in density, 61.8% in connectivity, and 48% in accessibility. While it reached the highest value of P1 (56.4%) in the computational method (gate count) and connectivity (72.8%), it also increased in observational urban density (63.9%) and accessibility (62%), as shown in Figure 12.

5. Discussion

Recent studies have been conducted to evaluate social activities and interactions according to the modern spatial configurations of UCOS. El-Darwish [11] indicated that “Enhancing campus outdoor spaces design using space syntax method”. Bayoumi [12] explained that their study was “retrofitting the patterns of occupation of UCOS” using space syntax and behavioral mapping methods. Penn et al. [21] explained that the spatial configuration of UCOS influences random interactions between students and other users. Alnusairat [13] stated that their study investigated the behavior of students regarding the use of UCOS, identifying the most important factors to assess the social quality of outdoor spaces through the study of urban planning, physical features, and outdoor thermal comfort. Yaylalı [14] explored the effect of spatial configuration on the different forms and degrees of interactions on the university campus. Zhang et al. [15] investigated the effect of spatial configuration on student interactions and privacy preferences in informal learning spaces on campus.

These studies neglected the influence of social qualities according to the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS. Therefore, there is no correlation between the results of previous studies and the findings of this research. This is due to the different shapes of Islamic spatial configurations in outdoor spaces, which enhance the satisfaction of students and other users and promote alternative social activities and interactions outside of class hours. This research focused on analyzing and evaluating Islamic spatial configurations of outdoor spaces that enhance social qualities using integrated observational and computational methods in various UCOS. The observational methods were applied through behavioral mapping and movement tracing. Computational methods were applied through space syntax software. The results of the comparison of the three outdoor spaces can be summarized as follows:

• The most influential physical aspects of studied UCOS are mixed-use, accessibility, and density, respectively.
• The highest connectivity and visibility analysis values occur along the main axial path and the intersections between the various buildings.
• Walking constitutes the highest percentage in the activity categories along the axial pathways in UCOS in P1, Q1, and Q2, respectively.
• The highest value of social interactions between students and other users and sitting activity categories occurs in attached spaces to the edge of buildings in arcades and stair seats, respectively.
• There is a positive correlation between the results of the computational and observational methods.

The scope of this research is limited in time and space because it was conducted in a central university campus in the Islamic suburbs, isolated from the rest of the surrounding areas in a hot desert area of 290 acres. Behavioral mapping was conducted for a period of four months within one year. To improve the current research, this study requires a comparison between several Egyptian universities that are similar in terms of shape and composition. In addition, the observation period should be extended to enhance the reliability of the research findings. This study is limited to the evaluation of social qualities of the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS; however, other factors will also have an impact on the spatial configurations of outdoor spaces.

The researchers concluded that integrating computational and observational methods to understand social relations in outdoor spaces with Islamic spatial configurations is important to help raise the efficiency of social life in Egyptian universities.

6. Conclusions

University campus outdoor spaces (UCOS) promote interaction and social activities and are shared community spaces where students and users can interact and meet. These spaces are intended to encourage an intellectual and social environment while providing a comfortable environment for informal gatherings and activities. This study evaluated social qualities according to the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS at The American University in Cairo (AUC). The findings of this study are based on observational and computational methods and were targeted to evaluate Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS according to social qualities. The observational methods focused on behavioral mapping and movement tracing studies. These studies were integrated with computational studies dedicated to the social logic of space syntax theory by understanding movement through occupancy patterns, accessibility, and through using axial maps, VGA, and gate count analysis. According to this study, the arcades and stair seats are considered the most important Islamic spatial configurations in UCOS of AUC. Through the design of these spaces, it is necessary to increase green areas, shading, and seating elements as this would increase the rates and types of activities in UCOS.

The results concluded that the physical aspects with the greatest influence on the use of outdoor spaces are mixed-use, accessibility, and density. Axial connectivity and visibility values are at their highest along the main axial path and building intersections at UCOS P1 and Q2. Walking is the most common activity along the axial pathway in UCOS P1, Q2, and Q1. The social interactions and stationary activities between students and other users occur in attached spaces at the edge of buildings, such as the arcades and stair seats. Finally, the research indicates that there is a correlation between the findings of the computational and observational methods.

Although this research has accomplished its primary objectives by studying social qualities in Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS, it has several spatiotemporal limitations. Firstly, the research is limited to discuss and evaluate the Islamic spatial configurations of the suburban axial university campus with an area of 290 acres in a hot desert climatic region in Egypt. Secondly, the observational research is conducted through a cross-sectional study during the four most socially active months (September, October, November, and December) in one year and over four days of each of the months mentioned, for six hours as a rate of observation per day.

In conclusion, future research is needed to complement the findings of the study to make an integrated conceptual framework for evaluating the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS. Future studies should include more observational-based longitudinal observations to better understand UCOS social behavior. In addition, the computational method of validation can be incorporated into Islamic spatial configurations to aid future changes. The integration of observational analysis methods and space syntax evaluation has an impact on the design of high-density occupancy community spaces that meet the needs of students and other users of UCOS.

This study will help urban designers and architects to design and retrofit new UCOS. It will serve as a design guide for decision makers to create new regulations and laws for the design of Islamic spatial configurations for outdoor spaces, considering social qualities as a mandatory requirement. In addition, the investigation of the physical aspects that enhance the social activities and interactions in UCOS should also be a priority to enhance social life in Egyptian universities.