Exploring the Role of Urban Green Spaces: Perceptions and Experiences of International Students Living in Hoas Viikki

The proportion of immigrants in Helsinki has been growing since the 1990s, being a significant part of this flow from students who come to pursue a degree in Finland. The universities and the government highlight the importance of retaining these talents after graduation, as they bring new perspectives and diversity to Finnish society. However, international students face challenges in staying in the country, primarily related to finding employment and creating connections with the local population (University of Helsinki, 2024). This master’s thesis aims to explore the potential of green spaces to overcome these challenges and support international students’ integration into Finnish society, using the integration theory developed by Tedeschi et al. (2022). According to this theory, experiences in nature can foster integration into a new society. This study employs a quantitative approach, based on a survey that combines a questionnaire with an interactive map, to understand international students’ experiences and perceptions in green spaces and the extent to which these spaces can support their integration. The research focuses on international students living in Hoas (Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region) in the residential area of Viikki. The findings indicate that students have high satisfaction with the green spaces in Viikki, highlighting their potential to enhance well-being. However, the research shows challenges related to sociability, as students have difficulty making friends and interacting with their neighbours. Additionally, a lack of knowledge about nature and the possible activities available is also a problem. The study suggests that organisations such as student housing, universities, and government initiatives can encourage students to use green spaces, by organising activities or providing spaces for interaction near the buildings.

Grantor dc:publisher

Helsingin yliopisto

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Pinheiro, Natália

Contributors dc:contributor

• Helsingin yliopisto, Matemaattis-luonnontieteellinen tiedekunta
• University of Helsinki, Faculty of Science
• Helsingfors universitet, Matematisk-naturvetenskapliga fakulteten

• Green spaces
• integration
• nature-based integration
• international students
• student housing

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Identifier URI

URN:NBN:fi:hulib-202409103979

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:helda.helsinki.fi:10138/585524