Document Type : Science - Research
Authors
1
Department Urban Planning, Mara.C,,Islamic Azad University, Marand, Iran.
2
Department of Urban Planning and Architecture, Mar.C,,Islamic Azad University, Maragheh, Iran.
3
Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Mara.C,, Islamic Azad University, Marand, Iran
10.30473/grup.2026.77933.2988
Abstract
cities, as the primary settings of human life, play a crucial role in shaping children’s experiences and perceptions of their surrounding environment. In recent decades, however, rapid urbanization and the dominance of car-oriented planning approaches have significantly reduced children’s presence in public spaces and limited their access to safe, healthy, and engaging urban environments. In response to this challenge, the present study aims to qualitatively re-examine urban design through the lens of children’s lived experiences, with the objective of providing practical insights for urban planners and designers.
This research adopts a descriptive–analytical methodology with a qualitative approach. The study population consists of children residing in the ten municipal districts of Tabriz Metropolitan City. A purposive sampling strategy was employed, and a total of 15 children participated in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, children’s drawings, field observations, and library-based studies. The data analysis process was conducted using qualitative content analysis, following open, axial, and selective coding procedures grounded in the principles of grounded theory.
The findings of the study reveal five main themes derived from children’s narratives and visual expressions. These themes include: safety and accessibility challenges, such as heavy traffic and inadequate street lighting; the need for participation and creativity, reflected in children’s suggestions for artistic elements and participatory workshops; the importance of natural and visual elements, including greenery and vibrant colors; social interactions, particularly the need for spaces that support group play and collective activities; and environmental pollution, encompassing air and noise pollution. Furthermore,
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