Neuroarchitecture study: Academic Spaces’ Impact on Neurophysiological processes

Background: The analysis of the relationships between space and\r\nneurophysiological processes represents a growing field of interest in\r\nneuroarchitecture applied to education and the academic setting.\r\nAims: The study investigates the effect of four types of academic\r\nspaces (classroom, open space context, permanent exhibition space,\r\nand laboratory) on the neurophysiological correlates and cognitive\r\nrestoration of a sample of healthy students. Methods: The study\r\nemployed a qualitative-quantitative approach. An initial assessment\r\nevaluated resting neurophysiological states and mental environment\r\nrepresentations. Neurophysiological data (Delta, Theta, Beta, and\r\nGamma frequency bands) were recorded through a wearable electroencephalography system during space exploration. Subsequently,\r\nparticipants provided further mental representations and completed\r\ntwo psychometric scales (Building Wellbeing Scale and Perceived\r\nRestorativeness Scale) at the conclusion of the study. Results: The\r\nmain findings suggest that environments dedicated to permanent\r\nexhibitions and educational activities entail higher levels of coherence\r\ncompared to laboratory settings. Open spaces (such as atriums) have\r\ndemonstrated greater social connectivity compared to traditional\r\nclassrooms. Analyses of variance revealed a significant increase in\r\nactivity within the temporo-parietal cortical regions as opposed to\r\nfrontal cortical regions for the Delta, Theta, and Gamma bands.\r\nFurthermore, an increase in Beta band activation in the left hemisphere compared to the right was observed, implying involvement of\r\npositive emotions during exploration. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of carefully considering the design of academic\r\nspaces to promote the psychological and cognitive well-being of\r\nstudents, using tangible evidence derived from neurophysiological\r\nanalysis and a neuroscientific approach.