Developing Walkability Assessment for University Campuses: A Mixed-Methods Approach Using Geotechnology, Graph Theory, and Participatory Mapping

University campuses significantly influence students' ability to adopt healthy lifestyles. A well-designed campus-built environment can encourage walking, a vital form of active transportation. While various health initiatives exist, walking remains a crucial factor in promoting physical activity on college campuses, especially since students often face stressors that limit their time for regular exercise. Despite its importance, there is no comprehensive campus walkability assessment available to urban planners and policymakers that maps the impacts of built environments on walking behaviors. This study addresses this gap by proposing a mixed-methods approach that combines participatory GIS (PGIS) and mathematical analysis to evaluate campus walkability. The research was conducted in three phases. In the first phase, a mathematical approach using graph theory, random walk analysis, and geometrization was applied to assess the physical structure of Texas Tech University (TTU). This analysis aimed to predict areas with low pedestrian flow, accessibility challenges, navigational difficulties, isolation, and integration issues within the campus environment. In the second phase, participatory mapping was employed to capture the social and spatial dimensions of campus walkability. A two-day workshop with diverse TTU student groups, representing various racial, gender, and national backgrounds, used ArcGIS Field Maps and ArcGIS Survey123 to record walking trajectories and perceptions on a web map of the campus. This approach allowed for the integration of subjective experiences with the objective spatial network data, revealing how campus structure impacts pedestrian perceptions and behaviors. The third phase involved capturing the broader campus community's perceptions through an IRB-approved online survey involving students, faculty, and staff. The survey included structured and open-ended questions to gather comprehensive feedback on their walking experiences and preferences. This research emphasizes the importance of combining mathematical modeling, spatial analysis, and participatory engagement to develop a robust framework for assessing campus walkability. By comparing subjective and objective data, the study highlights how a campus's spatial network and structure impact pedestrian perceptions, ultimately fostering healthier and more inclusive university environments.