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The Impact of Clarity and Legibility on Reducing Earthquake-Related Injuries in Educational Spaces in Shiraz
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Sanaz Kalhor *  , Alireza Nouriyan , Sara Zohari |
| , sanaz.kalhor@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (31 Views) |
Objective: The objective is to identify the factors that enhance clarity and legibility in educational spaces, which can facilitate movement and navigation within schools, and help in faster evacuation during crises such as earthquakes, ultimately reducing casualties.
Method: This research employs a mixed-method approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. The first part uses an analytical-descriptive method, including library studies and case studies. In the library study section, the concept of legibility and the factors influencing it are discussed. Then, ten girls' high schools in Shiraz, designed with elements aimed at enhancing legibility, were selected to analyze their spatial organization. These schools were assessed for compliance or non-compliance with legibility criteria. Subsequently, field research was conducted to identify the importance of legibility factors and their impact on reducing damage during crises. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed among school staff, teachers, and students in Shiraz. The data were analyzed using SPSS software, and strategies for improving the legibility of school spaces with the aim of reducing casualties during earthquakes were extracted.
Results: Factors such as the length and number of pathways, the degree of enclosure, the distinction of zones, the presence of strong nodes, flexibility, the prominence of edges, and the number and distinction of landmarks—which are components of legibility—play a significant role in facilitating navigation and reducing casualties during earthquakes. Exit zones and routes were identified as having the greatest impact.
Conclusions: The results show a strong relationship between the components that influence the physical legibility of educational spaces, which improve ease of navigation during crises and reduce earthquake-related casualties. By improving the legibility of paths and access points in buildings, emergency evacuation performance is also enhanced. In other words, quick and accurate evacuation requires clear pathways, access points, and guidance for people in crisis situations. |
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| Keywords: Clarity, Legibility, Earthquake, Educational Space, School, Shiraz. |
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
معماری
Received: 2024/03/5 | Accepted: 2025/07/21
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