Architecture Commons^™

Arts-Based Sustainability: From New York To Malawi, Martha B. Lerski

Publications and Research

Recognizing that libraries serve multiple constituencies and subject areas, this chapter documents and advocates for development of transdisciplinary arts-based research (ABR) and culture-related projects linked to environmental challenges. Libraries contribute collections and spaces, as well as the research of library and information scientists. Libraries are currently among invisible contributors to sustainability planning and services. The chapter will link this invisibility to the value of what visual arts refer to as negative space elements in subjects ranging from traditional ecological knowledge to environmental science. Library collections, projects, and research contribute to education for sustainable development (ESD) as required to achieve the …

Graduate School Blog - June 2025, Cynthia Haynes

UofM Grad School Blog

The June 2025 edition of the UofM Graduate School Blog helps prospective and current students make informed financial decisions with Part 1 of the Graduate School Cost Guide, breaking down tuition structures such as per-credit hour versus flat-rate models, highlighting UofM’s tuition cap for in-state students, and explaining key university fees and cost differences between online and on-campus formats. The blog also features Brianna Reilly, a Doctor of Musical Arts graduate from New York, who shares how a graduate assistantship and her passion for music education led her to continue at UofM through the pandemic. Additional resources include an …

The Third Annual Hasslein Caed Collaborative, Marianne Nicole Bishai

Construction Management

This paper details the planning, development, and impact of the third annual Hasslein CAED Collaborative Student Competition. The intention of the Hasslein Cup is to engage the students of the five College of Architecture and Environmental Design (CAED) majors in an industry-like scenario. The five majors, Architecture, Architectural Engineering, City and Regional Planning, Construction Management, and Landscape Architecture, make up the workforce of the construction industry, yet there has been very little opportunity for the students to work together and replicate a professional scenario. The competition began from research conducted by Greta Stout, class of 2022, which explored the benefits …

Experiential Advertising: The Immersive Evolution Of Marketing, Julianna Ferguson

Interior Design Undergraduate Honors Theses

Experiential advertising is revolutionizing marketing by creating immersive, emotionally resonant brand environments that foster consumer engagement and loyalty. This thesis explores the integration of experiential design in commercial branding, emphasizing how sensory-driven storytelling enhances brand identity and consumer connections. Through case studies such as the Gucci Garden in Florence, this research highlights the effectiveness of flagship stores, pop-ups, and sensory campaigns in transcending traditional advertising methods. Employing firsthand observations and analytical frameworks, the study identifies critical design strategies, including interactive installations and curated spaces, that reshape retail environments into platforms for emotional connection and advocacy. Findings reveal that experiential design …

Circular Framework In The Design & Planning Phase Of Construction, Shreya Kanther

Full-Text Theses & Dissertations

Executive Summary

The transition towards circular economy in the design and construction industry represents a transformative opportunity to align economic growth with environmental sustainability. This dissertation delves deeply into how circular strategies can be implemented within the construction sector, examining their potential to mitigate resource depletion and waste generation, while fostering innovation and efficiency. By integrating theoretical frameworks with empirical research, the study provides a robust understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with circular models and offers actionable insights for stakeholders navigating the shift from linear to circular economic practices.

The backdrop for this research lies in the unsustainable …

Addressing Housing Insecurity In Pacific Grove: Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Affordable Housing Resources, Melissa Gembe

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

The City of Pacific Grove is a beautiful coastal place to live, yet it is difficult to find affordable housing. The housing division works together with other departments in the city and state to carry out its goal of ensuring that residents have access to affordable housing. In previous community housing needs surveys 60% of respondents reported an interest in building an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Similarly, 50% respondents showed an interest in landlord incentive workshops. The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the effectiveness of these two key resources. A study was conducted through in-depth interviews with specialists in …

Rebuilding The American Dream: Understanding And Alleviating First-Time Home Buyer Affordability Challenges In Northwest Arkansas, Samuel R. Butler

Economics Undergraduate Honors Theses

Homeownership is a cornerstone of the American Dream. It is linked to numerous socioeconomic benefits such as social cohesion, civic engagement, imbalance in opportunities, education, and public health. However, in recent years, housing affordability across the nation and in Northwest Arkansas has become challenging.

Part I of this thesis explains the importance of homeownership nationally and the deteriorating conditions of first-time homebuyers. It explains the key drivers of housing affordability over time, and it explains the connection between zoning and affordability.

Part II focuses on the housing market in Northwest Arkansas (NWA). I forecast the NWA housing demand, which highlights …

Detecting Ideological Bias In Trump's Tweets: Trump's Peace Plan As A Case Study, Amer Qasem

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

This study aims to explore the extent of ideological bias in the discourse of elected U.S. President Donald Trump on social media platforms, specifically Twitter (now known as X), regarding his peace plan, commonly referred to as the "Deal of the Century." The study employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine all of Trump’s tweets related to the Deal of the Century, seeking to answer the following research questions: How did Trump portray the parties affected by the deal in his tweets? What rhetorical strategies did he employ to present the deal? The analysis spans the period from the announcement …

The Use Of Artificial Intelligence Applications By Media Students In Palestinian Universities And Their Achieved Gratifications “A Field Study”, Said Shaheen Allani, Ahmad Al Sallaq

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

The study aimed to identify the extent to which media students in Palestinian universities use artificial intelligence applications and the achieved gratifications from it. The study belongs to the descriptive studies approach utilizing questionnaire as a tool for collecting data, for an available sample of (165) individuals that were distributed in five Palestinian universities. The study reached to; (54.5%) of media students in Palestinian universities use artificial intelligence applications, they use it for several reasons, the most important phrase is “it helps me to produce good digital content,” with a relative weight of (47.4%), it also achieves a number of …

Media Frameworks In Addressing Environmental Issues On Al Jazeera Net Website: An Analytical Study, Sabah Al Harahsheh

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

This study aimed to recognize the media frameworks used to address environmental issues on (Al Jazeera Net) between 2009 and 2024. The study relied on the descriptive survey method, the theory of media frames, and the content analysis as a method and tool. The study population consisted of all articles, reports and interviews published on the (Al Jazeera Net) throughout the period specified by the study. A purposive sample was selected from the articles, reports and interviews interested in environmental issues only, which numbered eighteen journalistic works. The study identified the most important frameworks that presented the environmental issues during …

The Mediating Role Of Remote Communication On The Relationship Between Electronic Human Resource Management Practices And Organizational Performance In Iraqi Commercial Banks, Shuhub Basel Ahmad Taqa

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

This study aimed to measure the impact of remote communication as a mediating variable on the relationship between electronic human resources (e-HRM) and organizational performance in Iraqi commercial banks. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, with the study population consisting of managers, their deputies, and department heads in Iraqi commercial banks, totaling 242 individuals distributed across 24 commercial banks by the end of 2023. A total of 234 questionnaires were analyzed, achieving a response rate of 96.7%. The study employed Smart PLS software for data analysis and result extraction. The study revealed several key findings, the most significant of which …

Uta Datathon 2025 Challenges (Archive), Rubab Shahzad, Srinivasa Sai Abhijit Challapalli, Ghanbarian Behzad, Mei Yang, Clivin Geju, Zecil Yogeshkumar Jain, Jay Mahavirkumar Shah, Sai Nikhitha Chandana

2025 Datathon Challenges-Archive

Timed and Model Challenges from the UTA Datathon 2025

2025- The Twenty-Ninth Annual Symposium Of Student Scholars

Symposium of Student Scholars Program Books

The full program book from the 29th Annual Symposium of Student Scholars, held on April 16-18, 2025. Includes abstracts from the presentations and posters.

Graduate School Blog - April 2025 Volume 1, Cynthia Haynes

UofM Grad School Blog

The April 2025 UofM Graduate School Blog highlights a month full of events, stories, and celebrations, beginning with Dr. Deborah Tollefsen’s personal graduate school journey, shared during the “Is Graduate School Right for Me?” virtual workshop an inspiring narrative of resilience, mentorship, and finding purpose through education. This edition also spotlights Graduate Student Appreciation Week, featuring a robust lineup of events such as a virtual town hall, resume and job market workshop, student social and awards ceremony, study session, and social dinners all designed to support, celebrate, and connect the UofM graduate student community. With opportunities to hear from …

An Essay Of Images From Playlab Inc., Playlab Inc., Archie Lee Coates Iv

Digital Laboratory: Publisher of Internet Journal

A series of images depicting the illustrious Playlab Inc. as a collection of projects in different mediums. The LA-based design studio has contributed to fashion, art, and urban culture through collaborations with major institutions and emerging artists. The photo essay highlights Playlab Inc.’s diverse projects and installations, embodying its core philosophy: no focus. This principle guides the studio to the cutting-edge of contemporary culture, where innovation meets execution. The creative powerhouse has demonstrated a capacity to engage with contemporary cultural movements through its projects. For instance, in the OTW Vans project, the firm acquired images from notable skate photographers Atiba …

Inclusive Space For Everyone Door Sign (Printable 8.5 X 11 Inch), Joan H. Robinson

Open Educational Resources

This is a printable 8.5 x 11 inch door sign for faculty, staff, and administrators to let people know it is an inclusive space for everyone. For improved visibility, print with a color printer and cut along the dotted line.

See also: 11 x 17 inch door sign.

Comprehensive Data-Driven Analysis Of Nyc Real Estate Transactions: Insights Into Pricing Dynamics, Neighborhood Evolution, And Socioeconomic Influences, Ruiming Xu

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

This project provides a comprehensive analysis of New York City’s real estate market, focusing on its historical evolution, shifting demographics, and the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on housing trends. Utilizing data from trusted sources like Zillow, the NYC Department of Finance, and the U.S. Census Bureau, the study investigates how property values have changed over time, highlights neighborhoods undergoing notable transformations, and identifies the economic, cultural, and social factors driving these changes. The research aims to reveal the complex forces shaping the market while offering insights into its future direction and the reasons behind current trends. A key …

Synchronizing Work And Teaching Practices With The Spatial Dna Of Distributed Work And Learning, Manju Aishwarya Adikesavan

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Phygitality, the seamless and synergistic integration of physical and digital realms, is an indispensable and irrevocable part of contemporary office-based work. Phygitality facilitates spatially and temporally distributed or multi-local working where employees work from diverse locations such as their home, office, and third places at any time of day or night. It also makes nonterritorial working at temporary workspaces accessed on a session-by-session basis possible.

This dissertation examines how phygital, multi-local, and nonterritorial working reshape individual and group work behaviors, organizational spatial practices, work-centric settings, non-work-centric settings, neighborhoods, cities, and regions. The Spatial DNA of Distributed Work encapsulates a conceptual …

Expectations Versus Reality In New Cairo's Gated Communities: An Interdisciplinary Analysis Of Socio-Spatial Features, Ala'a Marwan

Theses and Dissertations

This research aims to introduce a new framework to identify the disparities between gated community residents’ experiences and real estate developers' visions towards the development. As New Cairo experiences significant growth, many residents are increasingly relocating to gated communities. It has become crucial to assess users’ expectations before moving and their lived experience post-moving to allocate the gaps between their expectations and reality, otherwise, the GC developments will grow apart from users’ updated preferences. The research focuses on the socio-spatial qualities such as accessibility to services and facilities, community interaction, and vast green areas between buildings for privacy, all of …

Challenges And Opportunities In The Dissemination Of Scientific Content: Insights From Media Professionals In Jordan, Ruba Mustafa Mohammad, Mahmoud Ahmad Al-Rajabi, Hala Nabil Amr

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

This study explored the challenges and opportunities in disseminating scientific content from the perspective of media experts in Jordan. Using a descriptive methodology and a questionnaire, the research aimed to understand the landscape better. The sample included 343 media experts holding master's degrees or higher in various media fields, along with several journalists actively working in the sector. The study revealed several key findings. Chief among them are the numerous obstacles hindering the dissemination of scientific content in Jordanian media. These include a lack of training for journalists on accessing new scientific information, a general absence of critical thinking skills …

The Degree Of Dependence Of The Jordanian Public On Social Media In Health Awareness Of Obesity Diseases (Survey Study), Jumana Irshiedat, Kamel Khurshid Murad

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

The article aimed to reveal the dependency of social media platforms in educating the Jordanian public about obesity diseases and explore the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects on the Jordanian public. The survey method was adopted; an approach used in descriptive studies, and the questionnaire tool was used to a sample (357) of the Jordanian public in Amman. The study-produced results including the platform most used by the Jordanian public to receive knowledge about health awareness is WhatsApp in the first place, followed by Instagram and then Facebook. The results also showed that the health topics of most interest to …

The Energy Transition In The Jordanian Media, Hanan Al-Shiekh

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

The study aimed to clarify the role of scientific journalism towards stimulating investment in environmentally friendly renewable energy sources, which is one of the necessary challenges facing the Kingdom of Jordan for economic growth and social development, due to its heavy dependence on energy imports, which reflects negatively on the Jordanian economy. This study is one of the descriptive studies that focuses on describing a specific topic, as it is in the current reality, in terms of its general and detailed characteristics, including variables, elements, relationships, and influences, which are among the most prominent features of scientific journalism in terms …

The Role Of Television In Increasing Knowledge About Health Issues Among Jordanian Citizens, Izzat Mohammad Hijab, Ahmad Oreqat, Hani Al-Badri

Middle East Journal of Communication Studies

This study explores the role of TV health programs in increasing the knowledge of Jordanian citizens about health issues. The study was based on the social survey methodology through a questionnaire distributed to a sample of 200 people from the city of Amman watching Jordan Television (JTV) health programs. The researcher concluded the following; a high watching for health programs, and that the Jordanians watch health programs with their family at home. The study also confirmed that the Jordanian benefits from health programs provided by JTV, and these programs are important and essential in educating citizens in health issues. Finally, …

Assessing The Readiness And Awareness Of Key Stakeholders In The Egyptian Maritime Industry To Implement Smart Green Port Practices: A Case Study Of Alexandria Port, Mohamed Elhussieny, Ahmed El Kassar, Kareem Tonbol

Blue Economy

This study explores the readiness and preparedness of the major stakeholders within the Egyptian maritime sector towards the adoption of smart green port practices, with particular consideration given to Alexandria Port. With growing environmental threats, the need to support sustainable maritime operations is high. The study evaluates the current state of the ecosystem at Alexandria Port and benchmark it against international standards to highlight the critical gaps that should be covered for the effective execution of smart green port approaches. The results indicate that, although stakeholders have basic knowledge of sustainability issues, large perceived barriers, particularly regarding resource availability, limited …

Adaptation For Whom? Understanding The Impacts Of Dyke Policies On Small-Scale Farmers In Ca Mau Province Of Vietnam, Nguyen Minh Quang, Nguyen Van Minh, Nguyen Vo Chau Ngan, Martha B. Lerski

Publications and Research

Low-lying deltas worldwide are extremely vulnerable to sea-level rise. As the risks of climate-induced flooding become increasingly clear, the thirst for infrastructure-driven adaptation increases. This highlights a patent need to understand the impacts of engineering adaptation solutions, especially those targeting built structures such as dykes and sluices, on farmers from a bottom-up, farmer-centred perspective. The study addresses this call by examining cases where dyke policies, while successful in some dimensions, have undermined small-scale farmer livelihoods in Ca Mau ― Vietnam’s southernmost rural province. It identifies areas in need of attention and adds empirical data related to this group of farmers. …

Green Project Finance For Infrastructure And Building Construction: Instruments And Benchmarks, Yunping Liang

Durham School of Architectural Engineering and Construction: Faculty Publications

It is counterintuitive that both the practice and research on green project finance for infrastructure and building construction are ascendant and still have limited precedents, considering that individually, the two parts (i.e., project finance and sustainability in the built environment) are both familiar to the communities. To narrow the gap and facilitate the financing of the built environment’s sustainable transformation, this study systematically reviews the common instruments for financing green infrastructure and building projects. Benchmarking questions distinguishing the profile of green project finance from common construction project finance are developed based on the literature review and then are used for …

The Impact Of Short-Term Rental Activity On House Prices: Evidence From Coastal Virginia, Navid Safari, Lei Zhang, Timothy M. Komarek

Finance Faculty Publications

Short-term rentals such as Airbnb have grown substantially in recent years. In this study, we investigated the effect of Airbnb rentals on neighboring house prices in Hampton Roads, Virginia. We focus on three different measures of Airbnb activity to obtain more robust results. Our measures include active Airbnb listings, active listings with at least one reservation, and the sum of reservations over three different periods. Consistent with previous literature, our main results show that prior Airbnb rental activity has a positive impact on the surrounding housing sales prices. Furthermore, the localized impact diminishes over geographic space (i.e., distances greater than …

Adopting Association Rule Learning For Detecting And Ranking Influential Users On Hashtags, Layal Abu Daher, Islam Elkabani, Rashed Zantout

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Social Media platforms are networks of relationships in which users are considered as nodes in a graph and relationships between users are considered edges. These graphs symbolize online groups or communities. It has been a challenge for researchers to study the evolution of such communities due to their rapid and dynamic development. The contribution of our work is twofold: (i) studying the effectiveness of a set of Direct and Indirect Influence Measures that identify the factors that urges users to participate in certain communities; (ii) proposing an Association Rule Mining technique to identify influential users on a dataset of a …

Designed For Limb Loss: An Artificial Intelligence-Based Bionic Prosthetic Arm Transition From Simulation To Reality, Amira J. Zaylaa Dr., Imane Haidar, Ziad Doughan, Mohammad Moumnieh, Hamza Mrad, Ali M. Haidar

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Limb or organ loss of human remains challenging especially in the world of incessant reliance on touch-based screens and tasks. Thereby, patients can barely withstand and cope with the augmenting restrictions that they encounter due to this loss. Modern means and technologies, such as advanced and artificial parts reduced restrictions on patients with disabilities or a lost limb or organ. Hand prostheses, for instance, provided a powerful tool for improving the functional capabilities of human limbs, thereby improving the quality of life of the user. However, patients using prosthetic arms are still encountering numerous problems, such as, suffering from intact …

Citizen And Technology: The Core In Developing Human-Centric Smart Cities, Mohammed Ali Berawi, Mustika Sari, Perdana Miraj

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

As urbanization continues to grow, the development of smart cities has become a pivotal strategy for addressing the complex challenges of modern urban living. These cities harness advanced technologies like the artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Digital Twin to optimize city operations, improve sustainability, and enhance the quality of life for their residents. However, the success of smart cities should not be measured by the sheer quantity of hardware and software implemented but rather by the quality of life they create for the people who live and work within them. In other words, smart cities must prioritize …