Assessing a built environment’s functional performance and physical and psychological impact is essential for understanding its effect on users, particularly in higher education, where it informs the creation of effective learning spaces. This study aims to explore the application of Space Syntax Theory in a higher-educational context and examines the functional efficiency of three architecture schools in Erbil: Salahaddin University-Erbil, Koya University, and Cihan University-Erbil. Using a quantitative research paradigm, the study employs space-syntax methodologies, including axial map analysis and justified graphs, to evaluate key syntactical parameters such as mean depth, relative asymmetry (RA), real relative asymmetry (RRA), real ring-ness (R-value), and the difference factor (H*). The analysis, conducted via Depthmap X software, examines spatial permeability and connectivity within educational layouts, providing insights into their functional performance. The findings indicate that the architecture school at Cihan University-Erbil, characterised by a ring-like spatial structure, achieves a moderate level of functional performance, outperforming Salahaddin University-Erbil and Koya University. Moreover, productive spaces consistently exhibit higher functional performance than supportive spaces across all case studies. This research proposes a framework for optimising spatial configurations in higher education, providing evidence-based strategies to enhance functionality and promote best practices in educational architecture.

A natural science museum is a typology that is pivotal in showcasing exhibits of scientific knowledge from the natural world. In the present study, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is chosen as a case study to analyze how spatial configuration influences visitor experience through the lens of Space Syntax analysis specifically on the level of permeability and wayfinding. A qualitative analysis using a Justified Graph is used to assess the connectivity of the spatial system, while the DepthMapX simulation program evaluates permeability and wayfinding. The findings demonstrate a symmetrical spatial system with low depth levels is observed, where public spaces are highly integrated providing a clear wayfinding. In contrast, the private spaces are located at higher depth levels possessing low visual connectivity, designed to be accessible only to the staff. This separation limits visitors’ movement toward the private areas while ensuring users’ security. The clear distinction between public and private spaces allows for efficient space utilization, enhancing visitor experience while maintaining museums’ security and functionality.

Architectural Education (AE), as a multidisciplinary realm of knowledge, has undergone diverse pedagogical transformations, incorporating different learning theories and concerns to adapt to the evolving educational landscape and the escalating demand for a sustainable built environment. This comprehensive investigation of the literature intends to present the most dominant challenges and examine trends in AE in the first few decades of the twenty-first century. The review framework applied by the authors is the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The authors searched keywords in the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases, investigating ninety-six articles published between 2000 and 2023, and implementing the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis of the relevant articles has provided valuable insights into research intention, revealing several main themes in the AE: learning approaches, technology innovation, sustainability, history, students’ experience and performance, architecture design and design studio, society concerns, computer application in AE, architecture curriculum, and Building Information Modelling (BIM). The review also found that researchers identify the efficiency of several teaching strategies primarily used at architectural schools including experiential, online, e-learning, and blended learning. This interpretation of predominant architectural issues and learning challenges will significantly enhance the learning environment by providing guidelines for integrating advanced technological tools, effective learning methodologies, and practical experience. International collaboration among academic staff in the field of architecture is crucial for the thorough evaluation of literature on the AE. Engaging architecture professionals from around the world will effectively help overcome linguistic and societal barriers. The study suggests that more research on art, social context, and the physical built environment is crucial for enhancing AE.