Performance Assessment via Post-Occupancy Evaluation of an Environmental Education and Ecotourism Center Based on Employees' Experience

The Royal Academy for Nature Conservation in Ajloun, designed by Khammash architects, is considered an impressive manifestation of the Neo-vernacular trend in Jordan. Therefore, an investigative Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) study was conducted to gain insight into its pros and cons. Furthermore, this research aims to rate the quality of this building design as a whole, its spaces, and its materials based on employees' experience. A multimethod approach was used, mixing both quantitative and qualitative methods. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. Also, multiple linear regression was used to find if there is a significant relationship between demographics and the quality of building design. The results showed that the quality of the building design as a whole was excellent. Also, the overall quality of the building spaces was rated as good. However, odor and wayfinding signage systems were major problems. Employees ranked the environmental qualities (temperature) as the most important design aspect. Many employees suggested adding a children's daycare center and playing area and using water features indoors and outdoors. POE is an essential tool that must be integrated into the building practices in Jordan. This study provides important feedback to enhance the performance of educational and ecotourism centers.