PARK-ability The New Method in Landscape Architecture to Understand Behaviour on Site

DOI: 10.5176/2301-394X_ACE18.156

Authors: Prof. Dirk Junker, Christian Nollen and Nathália Silva

Abstract:

— The term “PARK-ability” is an acronym from the terms “park”, “action”, “reaction” and “cognition” in connection to the English word 'Ability', which at the same time focuses on the park as a mediating, designed space between landscape and garden. On the basis of the user experience, the usability and approaches of human machine interaction research, which focus on the subject, the interaction or the object in varying proportions, PARK-ability pursues a holistic and alternative approach. The question of PARK-ability is whether the park is suitable for actual use and also able to meet the user requirements. The required information is collected using a mix of methods from conventional data collection methods (observation, questionnaire, interview, etc.) and complementary techniques, such as a GPS-based motion profile, mobile eye tracking or other biometric values, likewise the measurement of brain waves and the heart rate of the individuals.

Keywords: component; park; recreation; usability; PARK-ability; mobile eye tracking; user analysis; interaction analysis; regional tourism; gardening; landscape architecture; relaxation; nature experience; green infrastructure; perception of different user groups; inclusive and barrier-free usability of parks.