AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN PERCEIVING CAMPUS LEGIBILITY THROUGH COGNITIVE MAPPING

Authors

  • Mastura Adam Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI MALAYA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
  • Kishen Naidu Subramaniam Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI MALAYA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
  • Norafida Ab Ghafar Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI MALAYA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
  • Najah Md Alwi Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI MALAYA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
  • Ziad Baydoun Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, UNIVERSITI MALAYA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v23i38.1811

Keywords:

Imageability, Mental mapping, Legibility, Campus Image and Identity

Abstract

University campuses rely on imageability and legibility to support navigation and identity, yet complex layouts can undermine orientation and student experience. This study examines campus imageability at Universiti Malaya using a mixed-methods design: a questionnaire (n=50), cognitive mapping tasks grounded in Lynch’s five elements, and semi-structured interviews (n=10). Descriptive and thematic analyses assessed wayfinding challenges, the salience of spatial elements, and perceived identity. Results show landmarks (e.g., Dewan Tunku Canselor, UM Library) and edges (notably Varsity Lake) dominate mental maps, while ambiguous intersections, inconsistent signage, and long, indirect pathways contribute to navigation friction. Pathways such as Jalan Lingkungan Budi anchor movement but nodes and districts are recalled less reliably. The findings indicate that a small set of highly imageable elements carries most of the cognitive load for wayfinding and belonging. We recommend (i) targeted signage and pathway reinforcement, (ii) coherent zoning into named “districts,” and (iii) incremental adoption of digital/AR guides for first-time users. Enhancing legibility can strengthen campus identity and improve everyday student experience.

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Published

2025-10-16

How to Cite

Adam, M., Subramaniam, K. N., Ab Ghafar, N., Md Alwi, N., & Baydoun, Z. (2025). AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN PERCEIVING CAMPUS LEGIBILITY THROUGH COGNITIVE MAPPING. PLANNING MALAYSIA, 23(38). https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v23i38.1811

Issue

Vol. 23 (2025): PLANNING MALAYSIA JOURNAL : Volume 23, Issue 4, 2025

Section

Article

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