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A Holistic Model for Student-Centered On- and Off-Campus Housing — A Comparative Cross-Country Evaluation. Illuminating Paths to Sustainability
This study presents a comprehensive framework for evaluating university-managed student housing, assessing its capacity to meet diverse student needs across personal, social, and intellectual dimensions. Drawing on data from 167 student halls in 13 cities across eight European countries, the analysis uses a revised 7-tier needs model based on Maslow’s theory. Unlike traditional hierarchical approaches, the model treats all aspects of student housing — facilities, services, social spaces, academic support, and personal development — as equally important to student well-being and academic success. The methodology applies quantitative content analysis to website data and introduces a novel, multi-criteria, non-hierarchical assessment tool. By identifying deficiencies and proposing improvements, this work supports the development of more supportive living-learning environments that foster holistic student development.