Evaluation of Spaces with Water based on Human Behavioral Approach

Today, it is needed to find a proper way or method for creating spaces with water within the urben area. To do so, it is necessary to know and understand the relationship between spatial and temporal components, and the resultant behavioral reactions caused by the psychological process of each person. From an understanding of these relationships, a planning and design procedure was created for the use of water within the urban context.<BR>In this study, information on behavioral responses was obtained by a questionnaire survey which our group conducted in Amagasaki city, the case study area. As behavioral responses are influenced by individual experiences, four elements which are basic to all backgrounds were chosen. These are 1) the number of years of residence, 2) age, 3) sex, 4) place of habitation. The indexes, made from the responses, consist of reactions to existing environmental factors and to proposed functional spaces indicated by a phrase or a picture. The answers were then evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively. The analysis, thus, used a combination of the statistical method, factor analysis, dual scaling, etc.<BR>From this analysis, it was learned that the inhabitants have many kinds of characteristics and tendencies. Some of these are as follows:<BR>1) The inhabitants desire more spaces with water, but the degree of want depends on their individual backgrounds.<BR>2) Long-term inhabitants, the aged, and males are generally more eager to have spaces with water than short-term inhabitants, the young and females.<BR>3) From the factor analysis, a classification system was deduced for open spaces with water, according to function and the desired image.<BR>4) The inhabitants express different expectations of spaces with water on the questionnaire, than what they claimed to like on the photographs. However, the process of decision making as to what is the most important element or use for the space was influenced by cpnditions shown in the sample photographs.<BR>In the next step, it will be necessary to do further study to confirm the findings on the public's subconscious needs and wants, so that one might be able to better rehabilitate a site to satisfy those requirements.