Priorities of campus in the transition from first- and second-generation universities to third and fourth based on the Noel-Levitz satisfaction evaluation model

The satisfaction of users with university campuses plays a pivotal role in shaping the competitiveness and attractiveness of educational institutions. On one side, changes in demographic priorities, lifestyle, technology, etc. and on the other side, changing preferences among university audiences along with the necessity of an inevitable movement towards third and fourth-generation universities, highlight the importance of evaluating physical space satisfaction in Iranian universities. The characteristics and qualities of the build environment have a direct effect on activities and behavior. Fourth- generation universities aim to create a campus where students and scientists from all over the world continuously work in a challenging and inspiring environment. This research aims to providee a general framework for evaluating users' satisfaction with the physical space of universities (specifically the campus) , with a focus on its application within the context of Yazd University. Drawing upon the Noel-Levitz satisfaction model, this research seeks to assess and understand the satisfaction levels of students, professors, and staff at Yazd University.  Through the use of quantitative-survey and three cluster sampling of students, professors and staff the study delves into various dimensions of satisfaction related to the campus environment. We conducted “importance-performance analysis (IPA) based on strengths (the questions have the most importance and the highest satisfaction), challenges (the questions have the most importance and the least satisfaction) and performance gap to identify planning priorities in the Yazd University campus . The findingsunderscore the importance of several key factors in shaping users' satisfaction with university campuses, namely, accessibility, sensory-functional, and spatial syntax. . Based on the factors, the priorities for Yazd University campus planning are: 1) redefining the access hierarchy and developing diverse modes of mobility, 2) creating coherent and integrated forms of the campuses 3) Planning the development of campuses  based on optimal use of land and creating activities related to the city.  In conclusion, this research contributes to the existing literature by offering insights into users' satisfaction with university campuses in Iran. By adapting the Noel-Levitz satisfaction model and conducting a comprehensive evaluation, the study provides valuable data and recommendations for enhancing the campus experience. By prioritizing factors such as accessibility and spatial design, universities can create environments that foster innovation, collaboration, and overall satisfaction among users.