Cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due
to t... more Cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due to the absence of robust planning measures. This causes lack or ill distributions of facilities and segregation between these facilities and the residences in districts and neighbourhoods across the Kingdom. It also encouraged citizens to adopt unhealthy lifestyles which in turn aggravated their health conditions. This paper discusses the critical relationship between the unhealthy lifestyle of diabetic patients and the proximity of public gardens. A survey on 76 diabetic patients and their living conditions was carried out. A visual and mapping survey was conducted on public gardens and vacant lands around diabetics’ homes. The study found that cities in the Eastern province, KSA have unhealthy urban and suburban settings in terms of the proximity and characteristics of public gardens. It is revealed that patients have unhealthier lifestyle and frequent diabetic symptoms when gardens are far away and vacant lands are nearer to their homes. This calls the need for emergent amendment of the present planning regulations for the use of vacant lands and public amenities including public gardens in Saudi cities so they would help improving the physical, psychological and spiritual health of the diabetic patients and the community.
Academic teaching and research experience 2 years and 7 months in Syria and UK and 8 years and 1... more Academic teaching and research experience 2 years and 7 months in Syria and UK and 8 years and 11 month in KSA
UK Research fellowship experience: 8 months
Professional experience 6 years in the UK+ 10 years in Syria
Number of scientific publications in scientific journals 32
Number of scientific publications recently accepted 1
Number of scientific publications in scientific conferences 28
Number of books published 10 books and a number of internal reports
Number of contributions to national and international scientific journals 26
Number of contributions to National & International Scientific Conferences, Symposia and Workshops 40
Number of academic courses taught 12 undergraduate and 3 postgraduate
Membership in national and international organizations 7
The Gulf area witnesses a huge boom in construction. The total value of construction projects pla... more The Gulf area witnesses a huge boom in construction. The total value of construction projects planned or underway in the six Gulf Cooperation Council states – the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman – was about $1.9 trillion in 2011. Gulf countries have unique characteristics and these affect the systems, operations and activities of their construction industries. Unfortunately, little is currently known about these characteristics and as a consequence, there is doubt over whether the built environment shall be able to sustain this level of growth, or if the social, economic, technological and demographic pressure will prove too much for the Gulf States. Clearly there are gaps in our knowledge of how institutes of higher education are responding to such pressure. In particular, whether the construction industry is smart in the response it is making to the pressure for change and if this is based on the innovative design and application of systems, ope...
Design is a social phenomenon and researchers suggest that
negotiations and communications betwee... more Design is a social phenomenon and researchers suggest that negotiations and communications between designers are essential to initiate creativity. Within the design studio environment, a number of factors affect the healthy social interaction and design negotiations, such as the teaching style of tutors and the culture that governs a design studio environment. This may, in turn, affect the utilisation of the outcome of negotiations in the design project. Design studio students from the third to fifth years at the College of Architecture, UoD were surveyed to find out how far the design studio culture and communications would impact on the production of innovative design projects. The results show that democratic communications and establishing common grounds are essential to develop knowledge and would influence positively the design outcome. On the other hand, the research found that negative personal and design studio environment’s qualities would hinder students’ creativity. However, to develop students’ design/innovative abilities, the researcher recommends that certain measures should be considered. These would include shifting the focus of architectural design pedagogy from the production of solution-based to innovative-based design projects, transforming the design studio into an interactive and friendly learning environment and the development of interactive and communications skills of tutors.
Many studies worldwide have demonstrated the negative impact of an unhealthy built environment on... more Many studies worldwide have demonstrated the negative impact of an unhealthy built environment on citizens. In the case of diabetes, studies have concentrated on the environmental impact and accessibility issues of a place i.e. the home and neighborhood, whereas few studies have addressed the comfort of the type and spatial arrangement of a household and linked it with the prevalence of diabetes. Also, little research has tackled the place's impact on diabetic patients and their views concerning their environments. This paper demonstrates the outcomes of survey that was carried out on diabetic individuals who usually visit the King Fahd teaching hospital of the University of Dammam, Al-Khober, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The patients were surveyed and physically examined. The present researchers found significant links between patients' diabetes symptoms such as reported paresthesia and blurred vision, and medical investigations results such as lipid profile, blood glucose and blood pressure with the environmental conditions of their homes and neighborhoods. The paper shows that the prevalence of the disease is not only caused by an unhealthy lifestyle but also by an unhealthy built environment. Moreover, it illustrates that unhealthy built environment promotes unhealthy life styles. It makes recommendations on how to improve the built environment in the KSA to be healthier for all citizens including the diabetic patients.
This paper examines the potential use of the Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) to... more This paper examines the potential use of the Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) to manage remote construction projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It discusses two case studies; the first is concerning a public services company whereas the other is about mega construction companies. Using observation, questionnaires and interviews, the study found significant barriers to the utilization of ACM and these are ranged according to their significance and the paper recommends proper solutions that facilitate the use of ACMS by companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Researchers worldwide have demonstrated the adverse impact of unsustainable and unhealthy built e... more Researchers worldwide have demonstrated the adverse impact of unsustainable and unhealthy built environment on citizens. In the case of diabetes, studies have concentrated on the environmental impact and accessibility issues of a place i.e. the home and neighbourhood, whereas very few studies have addressed the spatial arrangement of places and linked it with the prevalence of diabetes. Also, little research has tackled the place’s impact on diabetic patients and their views concerning their neighbourhoods. This paper illustrates the outcomes of survey that was carried out on diabetic individuals in the eastern province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The present researchers found significant links between patients’ diabetes symptoms with the unsustainable and unhealthy conditions of their homes and neighbourhoods. The paper makes recommendations on how to improve the built environment in the KSA to be sustainable and healthier for all citizens including the diabetic patients.
Traffic accidents are mostly the result of traffic violations committed by road users, therefore ... more Traffic accidents are mostly the result of traffic violations committed by road users, therefore the behavior of the driver and the offenses committed by drivers are the key factors in road accidents around the world. Recent research and statistics showed that the incorrect or irresponsible behavior of road users is a contributing factor to about 95% of accidents and the main factor in about 65% of accidents. Developed countries have paid great attention to the improvement of driver behaviour and attitude. Some countries have introduced special curricula concerning traffic education for school students. The selected case studies below indicated that the wrong attitude and behaviour have a significant influence on involvement of young people in road crashes. It also highlighted that the wrong or non-use of child safety seat by parents and helmets by motorcyclists cause death amongst children and motorcyclist accordingly. It discussed the negative consequences of the risky driving behaviour and driver’s distraction.
Scientific research reported that, road accidents is the major cause of pediatrics’ injuries and ... more Scientific research reported that, road accidents is the major cause of pediatrics’ injuries and death in the world. It is found that, crash injury is the cause of most deaths among the age group between 15- 25, even the most likely causes of death amongst youths between age 15-19 are road accidents. Traffic accidents in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia claim the lives of 6,596 each year, in addition to more than 38,000 serious injuries because of traffic accidents. Therefore, traffic safety has become a national and international concern. The case studies below discussed the role of education and training offered by driving schools, primary and high schools and universities in raising the awareness of the importance of traffic safety, and providing the youth proper driving and traffic safety skills and knowledge which would help reducing the rate of traffic accidents
Traffic accidents are considered the principal cause of death among youth i.e. 15-29 years (Almaj... more Traffic accidents are considered the principal cause of death among youth i.e. 15-29 years (Almajil, 2015). The rate of traffic accidents on the road in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has increased dramatically. It has become a painful phenomenon experienced by all society’s sectors and has caused humanitarian and health suffering for individuals. The case studies below indicated the importance of mobilizing all efforts and initiating partnerships among all authorities and companies to tackle the traffic safety problem. They emphasized the significance of coordinating the workload among them, raising the sense of responsibility among citizens and residents towards the achievement of traffic safety, and raising traffic awareness among citizens. They suggested that the cooperation of the efforts of various governmental authorities, companies and institutions is vital and each party should promote and spread the concept of traffic safety among staff and the local community. To accomplish these goals, it is recommended that private and public sectors should initiate, adopt, activate and support activities and programs that based on cooperation and partnership amongst concerned parties.
Previous research indicated that the success of e-learning systems utilization depends largely on... more Previous research indicated that the success of e-learning systems utilization depends largely on the user's attitude and ability to use the e-learning system. Accordingly, it was noticed that students at the College of Architecture and Planning, University of Dammam (UoD) were unwilling to use the e-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey was launched in 2014 to find out the reasons behind the low level of utilization of the e-learning system by students and the utilization's obstacles. The survey’s results showed that many students comprehensively relied on the Internet resources and online social networks, and few of them have actually used the University's e-learning system and e-resources. The students pointed out reasons behind the little use of E-learning system such as the system does not help them undertaking innovative activities of the design studio, overcoming troublesome design situations, and producing innovative projects. The students also mentioned a number of personal and technical shortages that limit the full and optimum utilization of the e-learning system. This paper argues that shortages of the present E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise, the e-learning system, will not respond to the architecture students’ innovative needs and inspirations.
Diabetes mellitus, is a serious disease that may lead to severe conditions such as blindness, end... more Diabetes mellitus, is a serious disease that may lead to severe conditions such as blindness, end-stage of renal disease, limb amputation and a variety of debilitating neuropathies. Previous research indicated that diabetes is caused by a complex interaction of patient’s genetics, life-style and environmental factors. It also highlighted that providing quality and healthy built environment to citizens including diabetic patients would prevent the decline of the patient condition. Accordingly, the Islamic built laws derived from Islamic Sharia have set the grounds of how to provide healthy built environment for citizens. Little research was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in regards to the effect of environmental conditions on the health status of diabetic people. In 2011, the present researchers have surveyed a number of diabetic patients to find out the possible impact of built environment settings on the patient’s lifestyle thus how far it would affect the progress of the diabetes. The results showed a close link between a poor home and environmental settings, the patient’s lifestyle, and the health status. The paper argues that certain changes to the built environment must be done and to provide a healthy and safe environment for diabetic patients. The Islamic built laws would largely help in provisioning such healthy environment that helps people to live to abandon their bad habits and adopt healthier lifestyle.
The significance of E-learning systems has been
long recognized by higher education institutes
ar... more The significance of E-learning systems has been long recognized by higher education institutes around the world. It is proven that the success of use largely depends on the user’s attitude and ability to use the E-learning system. However, it was noticed that students at the University of Dammam, College of Architecture and Planning were reluctant to use the E-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey was launched in May 2014 and it aims to find out why students do not utilize the E-learning system and the utilization’s obstacles. The survey’s results showed that many students relied heavily on the Internet resources and online social networks, and few of them have used the University’s E-learning system and e-resources. The reason, as the students pointed out that the E-learning system does not help them in to undertake design studio’s activities, to overcome difficult design situations, and produce innovative projects. The students also highlighted a number of personal and technical shortages that limit the effective utilization of the E-learning system. This paper argues that potential shortages of the E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise, the present E-learning system, as it is, will not respond to the architecture students’ needs and inspirations.
Studio based learning is at the core of an architectural education. Through the design studio
stu... more Studio based learning is at the core of an architectural education. Through the design studio students learn how to gain innovative skills and produce innovative solutions and this would be considered as the real value of the design studio’s education. The design studio helps students to use problem-solving approaches and skills during professional practice to develop innovative design outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the innovative design outcome and the social environment of design studios in two departments of architecture, at the University of Dammam and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. It has highlighted the key findings of the field survey and compared the relevant importance of factors which hinder or promote initiative in the production of innovative design projects in each department. Unique hindrances to innovation were found in each department and these were firmly linked to the teaching style and the design studio’s culture. Therefore specific solutions on how to enhance social interaction in the design studio and initiate the innovative abilities of students have been recommended to each department.
Many studies have demonstrated the adverse effect of the built environments on health and differe... more Many studies have demonstrated the adverse effect of the built environments on health and differentiated between their direct and indirect impacts. In the case of diabetes and other chronic diseases, such studies concentrate on the direct impact of built environments on the living conditions of citizens either at home or in the neighbourhood. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), little research has tackled the indirect and so-called place-based impact of the built environment. This study reports on the findings of surveys carried out on 76 diabetics who usually visit the King Fahd Teaching Hospital of the University of Dammam, Al-Khober in the Eastern province of KSA. It investigates the relationship between the place-based impact of the built environment, diabetes and living conditions. The working hypothesis is that: living conditions found in the homes and surrounding neighbourhoods of those suffering from diabetes do aggravate the symptoms of the disease, which in turn have an adverse impact on the medical condition. The study provides evidence to support this hypothesis as the findings reveal there is a positive correlation between the place-based impact of built environments, diabetes, living conditions, homes and neighbourhoods and these jointly aggravate the symptoms associated with the medical condition.
Remote projects have their unique problems that are caused mainly by the remoteness of the projec... more Remote projects have their unique problems that are caused mainly by the remoteness of the project. Little research was undertaken particularly in the gulf region concerning this issue and it has highlighted few unique communications and management problems such as the loose control, lack of human resources, infrastructure and experience. This research investigates the current problems that the Saudi Aramco and other large companies in the Eastern province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), experience regarding the management of remote construction projects. The field study consists ofa questionnaire survey and interviews, and it shows a number of management problems that have profound negative impact on remote projects’ performance and process. The study inspects how Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) would help in sorting out a number of present projects’ management problems.
Cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due
to t... more Cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due to the absence of robust planning measures. This causes lack or ill distributions of facilities and segregation between these facilities and the residences in districts and neighbourhoods across the Kingdom. It also encouraged citizens to adopt unhealthy lifestyles which in turn aggravated their health conditions. This paper discusses the critical relationship between the unhealthy lifestyle of diabetic patients and the proximity of public gardens. A survey on 76 diabetic patients and their living conditions was carried out. A visual and mapping survey was conducted on public gardens and vacant lands around diabetics’ homes. The study found that cities in the Eastern province, KSA have unhealthy urban and suburban settings in terms of the proximity and characteristics of public gardens. It is revealed that patients have unhealthier lifestyle and frequent diabetic symptoms when gardens are far away and vacant lands are nearer to their homes. This calls the need for emergent amendment of the present planning regulations for the use of vacant lands and public amenities including public gardens in Saudi cities so they would help improving the physical, psychological and spiritual health of the diabetic patients and the community.
Academic teaching and research experience 2 years and 7 months in Syria and UK and 8 years and 1... more Academic teaching and research experience 2 years and 7 months in Syria and UK and 8 years and 11 month in KSA
UK Research fellowship experience: 8 months
Professional experience 6 years in the UK+ 10 years in Syria
Number of scientific publications in scientific journals 32
Number of scientific publications recently accepted 1
Number of scientific publications in scientific conferences 28
Number of books published 10 books and a number of internal reports
Number of contributions to national and international scientific journals 26
Number of contributions to National & International Scientific Conferences, Symposia and Workshops 40
Number of academic courses taught 12 undergraduate and 3 postgraduate
Membership in national and international organizations 7
The Gulf area witnesses a huge boom in construction. The total value of construction projects pla... more The Gulf area witnesses a huge boom in construction. The total value of construction projects planned or underway in the six Gulf Cooperation Council states – the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman – was about $1.9 trillion in 2011. Gulf countries have unique characteristics and these affect the systems, operations and activities of their construction industries. Unfortunately, little is currently known about these characteristics and as a consequence, there is doubt over whether the built environment shall be able to sustain this level of growth, or if the social, economic, technological and demographic pressure will prove too much for the Gulf States. Clearly there are gaps in our knowledge of how institutes of higher education are responding to such pressure. In particular, whether the construction industry is smart in the response it is making to the pressure for change and if this is based on the innovative design and application of systems, ope...
Design is a social phenomenon and researchers suggest that
negotiations and communications betwee... more Design is a social phenomenon and researchers suggest that negotiations and communications between designers are essential to initiate creativity. Within the design studio environment, a number of factors affect the healthy social interaction and design negotiations, such as the teaching style of tutors and the culture that governs a design studio environment. This may, in turn, affect the utilisation of the outcome of negotiations in the design project. Design studio students from the third to fifth years at the College of Architecture, UoD were surveyed to find out how far the design studio culture and communications would impact on the production of innovative design projects. The results show that democratic communications and establishing common grounds are essential to develop knowledge and would influence positively the design outcome. On the other hand, the research found that negative personal and design studio environment’s qualities would hinder students’ creativity. However, to develop students’ design/innovative abilities, the researcher recommends that certain measures should be considered. These would include shifting the focus of architectural design pedagogy from the production of solution-based to innovative-based design projects, transforming the design studio into an interactive and friendly learning environment and the development of interactive and communications skills of tutors.
Many studies worldwide have demonstrated the negative impact of an unhealthy built environment on... more Many studies worldwide have demonstrated the negative impact of an unhealthy built environment on citizens. In the case of diabetes, studies have concentrated on the environmental impact and accessibility issues of a place i.e. the home and neighborhood, whereas few studies have addressed the comfort of the type and spatial arrangement of a household and linked it with the prevalence of diabetes. Also, little research has tackled the place's impact on diabetic patients and their views concerning their environments. This paper demonstrates the outcomes of survey that was carried out on diabetic individuals who usually visit the King Fahd teaching hospital of the University of Dammam, Al-Khober, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The patients were surveyed and physically examined. The present researchers found significant links between patients' diabetes symptoms such as reported paresthesia and blurred vision, and medical investigations results such as lipid profile, blood glucose and blood pressure with the environmental conditions of their homes and neighborhoods. The paper shows that the prevalence of the disease is not only caused by an unhealthy lifestyle but also by an unhealthy built environment. Moreover, it illustrates that unhealthy built environment promotes unhealthy life styles. It makes recommendations on how to improve the built environment in the KSA to be healthier for all citizens including the diabetic patients.
This paper examines the potential use of the Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) to... more This paper examines the potential use of the Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) to manage remote construction projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It discusses two case studies; the first is concerning a public services company whereas the other is about mega construction companies. Using observation, questionnaires and interviews, the study found significant barriers to the utilization of ACM and these are ranged according to their significance and the paper recommends proper solutions that facilitate the use of ACMS by companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Researchers worldwide have demonstrated the adverse impact of unsustainable and unhealthy built e... more Researchers worldwide have demonstrated the adverse impact of unsustainable and unhealthy built environment on citizens. In the case of diabetes, studies have concentrated on the environmental impact and accessibility issues of a place i.e. the home and neighbourhood, whereas very few studies have addressed the spatial arrangement of places and linked it with the prevalence of diabetes. Also, little research has tackled the place’s impact on diabetic patients and their views concerning their neighbourhoods. This paper illustrates the outcomes of survey that was carried out on diabetic individuals in the eastern province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The present researchers found significant links between patients’ diabetes symptoms with the unsustainable and unhealthy conditions of their homes and neighbourhoods. The paper makes recommendations on how to improve the built environment in the KSA to be sustainable and healthier for all citizens including the diabetic patients.
Traffic accidents are mostly the result of traffic violations committed by road users, therefore ... more Traffic accidents are mostly the result of traffic violations committed by road users, therefore the behavior of the driver and the offenses committed by drivers are the key factors in road accidents around the world. Recent research and statistics showed that the incorrect or irresponsible behavior of road users is a contributing factor to about 95% of accidents and the main factor in about 65% of accidents. Developed countries have paid great attention to the improvement of driver behaviour and attitude. Some countries have introduced special curricula concerning traffic education for school students. The selected case studies below indicated that the wrong attitude and behaviour have a significant influence on involvement of young people in road crashes. It also highlighted that the wrong or non-use of child safety seat by parents and helmets by motorcyclists cause death amongst children and motorcyclist accordingly. It discussed the negative consequences of the risky driving behaviour and driver’s distraction.
Scientific research reported that, road accidents is the major cause of pediatrics’ injuries and ... more Scientific research reported that, road accidents is the major cause of pediatrics’ injuries and death in the world. It is found that, crash injury is the cause of most deaths among the age group between 15- 25, even the most likely causes of death amongst youths between age 15-19 are road accidents. Traffic accidents in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia claim the lives of 6,596 each year, in addition to more than 38,000 serious injuries because of traffic accidents. Therefore, traffic safety has become a national and international concern. The case studies below discussed the role of education and training offered by driving schools, primary and high schools and universities in raising the awareness of the importance of traffic safety, and providing the youth proper driving and traffic safety skills and knowledge which would help reducing the rate of traffic accidents
Traffic accidents are considered the principal cause of death among youth i.e. 15-29 years (Almaj... more Traffic accidents are considered the principal cause of death among youth i.e. 15-29 years (Almajil, 2015). The rate of traffic accidents on the road in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has increased dramatically. It has become a painful phenomenon experienced by all society’s sectors and has caused humanitarian and health suffering for individuals. The case studies below indicated the importance of mobilizing all efforts and initiating partnerships among all authorities and companies to tackle the traffic safety problem. They emphasized the significance of coordinating the workload among them, raising the sense of responsibility among citizens and residents towards the achievement of traffic safety, and raising traffic awareness among citizens. They suggested that the cooperation of the efforts of various governmental authorities, companies and institutions is vital and each party should promote and spread the concept of traffic safety among staff and the local community. To accomplish these goals, it is recommended that private and public sectors should initiate, adopt, activate and support activities and programs that based on cooperation and partnership amongst concerned parties.
Previous research indicated that the success of e-learning systems utilization depends largely on... more Previous research indicated that the success of e-learning systems utilization depends largely on the user's attitude and ability to use the e-learning system. Accordingly, it was noticed that students at the College of Architecture and Planning, University of Dammam (UoD) were unwilling to use the e-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey was launched in 2014 to find out the reasons behind the low level of utilization of the e-learning system by students and the utilization's obstacles. The survey’s results showed that many students comprehensively relied on the Internet resources and online social networks, and few of them have actually used the University's e-learning system and e-resources. The students pointed out reasons behind the little use of E-learning system such as the system does not help them undertaking innovative activities of the design studio, overcoming troublesome design situations, and producing innovative projects. The students also mentioned a number of personal and technical shortages that limit the full and optimum utilization of the e-learning system. This paper argues that shortages of the present E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise, the e-learning system, will not respond to the architecture students’ innovative needs and inspirations.
Diabetes mellitus, is a serious disease that may lead to severe conditions such as blindness, end... more Diabetes mellitus, is a serious disease that may lead to severe conditions such as blindness, end-stage of renal disease, limb amputation and a variety of debilitating neuropathies. Previous research indicated that diabetes is caused by a complex interaction of patient’s genetics, life-style and environmental factors. It also highlighted that providing quality and healthy built environment to citizens including diabetic patients would prevent the decline of the patient condition. Accordingly, the Islamic built laws derived from Islamic Sharia have set the grounds of how to provide healthy built environment for citizens. Little research was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in regards to the effect of environmental conditions on the health status of diabetic people. In 2011, the present researchers have surveyed a number of diabetic patients to find out the possible impact of built environment settings on the patient’s lifestyle thus how far it would affect the progress of the diabetes. The results showed a close link between a poor home and environmental settings, the patient’s lifestyle, and the health status. The paper argues that certain changes to the built environment must be done and to provide a healthy and safe environment for diabetic patients. The Islamic built laws would largely help in provisioning such healthy environment that helps people to live to abandon their bad habits and adopt healthier lifestyle.
The significance of E-learning systems has been
long recognized by higher education institutes
ar... more The significance of E-learning systems has been long recognized by higher education institutes around the world. It is proven that the success of use largely depends on the user’s attitude and ability to use the E-learning system. However, it was noticed that students at the University of Dammam, College of Architecture and Planning were reluctant to use the E-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey was launched in May 2014 and it aims to find out why students do not utilize the E-learning system and the utilization’s obstacles. The survey’s results showed that many students relied heavily on the Internet resources and online social networks, and few of them have used the University’s E-learning system and e-resources. The reason, as the students pointed out that the E-learning system does not help them in to undertake design studio’s activities, to overcome difficult design situations, and produce innovative projects. The students also highlighted a number of personal and technical shortages that limit the effective utilization of the E-learning system. This paper argues that potential shortages of the E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise, the present E-learning system, as it is, will not respond to the architecture students’ needs and inspirations.
Studio based learning is at the core of an architectural education. Through the design studio
stu... more Studio based learning is at the core of an architectural education. Through the design studio students learn how to gain innovative skills and produce innovative solutions and this would be considered as the real value of the design studio’s education. The design studio helps students to use problem-solving approaches and skills during professional practice to develop innovative design outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the innovative design outcome and the social environment of design studios in two departments of architecture, at the University of Dammam and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. It has highlighted the key findings of the field survey and compared the relevant importance of factors which hinder or promote initiative in the production of innovative design projects in each department. Unique hindrances to innovation were found in each department and these were firmly linked to the teaching style and the design studio’s culture. Therefore specific solutions on how to enhance social interaction in the design studio and initiate the innovative abilities of students have been recommended to each department.
Many studies have demonstrated the adverse effect of the built environments on health and differe... more Many studies have demonstrated the adverse effect of the built environments on health and differentiated between their direct and indirect impacts. In the case of diabetes and other chronic diseases, such studies concentrate on the direct impact of built environments on the living conditions of citizens either at home or in the neighbourhood. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), little research has tackled the indirect and so-called place-based impact of the built environment. This study reports on the findings of surveys carried out on 76 diabetics who usually visit the King Fahd Teaching Hospital of the University of Dammam, Al-Khober in the Eastern province of KSA. It investigates the relationship between the place-based impact of the built environment, diabetes and living conditions. The working hypothesis is that: living conditions found in the homes and surrounding neighbourhoods of those suffering from diabetes do aggravate the symptoms of the disease, which in turn have an adverse impact on the medical condition. The study provides evidence to support this hypothesis as the findings reveal there is a positive correlation between the place-based impact of built environments, diabetes, living conditions, homes and neighbourhoods and these jointly aggravate the symptoms associated with the medical condition.
Remote projects have their unique problems that are caused mainly by the remoteness of the projec... more Remote projects have their unique problems that are caused mainly by the remoteness of the project. Little research was undertaken particularly in the gulf region concerning this issue and it has highlighted few unique communications and management problems such as the loose control, lack of human resources, infrastructure and experience. This research investigates the current problems that the Saudi Aramco and other large companies in the Eastern province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), experience regarding the management of remote construction projects. The field study consists ofa questionnaire survey and interviews, and it shows a number of management problems that have profound negative impact on remote projects’ performance and process. The study inspects how Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) would help in sorting out a number of present projects’ management problems.
The literature review has suggested that architects look for tools that would support them in the... more The literature review has suggested that architects look for tools that would support them in their attempt to produce Innovative projects. CAAD systems help the architect in formulating and developing design ideas. Research studies have concentrated on the usability and shortages of these systems, the users' attitude, knowledge and their acceptance of these systems. On the other hand, the literature review emphasized that certain negotiation and collaboration activities are crucial to initiate creativity and produce innovative design products. However, few studies have investigated the relation between the social settings of the design studio and the utilization of CAAD systems. This research argues that certain design studio's settings would affect the innovative use of CAAD systems. In 2012, students at College of Architecture, University of Dammam were surveyed to find out how the healthy design studio's settings would support the utilization of CAAD systems in producing innovative design products and vice versa. The survey results showed that innovative and open minded students, who undertake certain design and communication tasks, found that CAAD systems are more useful in producing innovative projects than other students. The study made recommendations on how to define and set healthy social interaction conditions in the design studio so this would initiate innovative behaviour while using CAAD system throughout the design process.
Whereas the architectural and urban planning practices historically responded to strict urban and... more Whereas the architectural and urban planning practices historically responded to strict urban and civic hierarchies and stylistic conventions, architecture practice find itself today in a competitive market environment, where architecture expression looks beyond the digital imagery produced by CAD packages to retrieve the architects control over the design process to produce sensory and experimental environments.
The book consists of the following sections:
Preface
Abstracts of Keynote speeches
Theme I: Y... more The book consists of the following sections: Preface Abstracts of Keynote speeches Theme I: Youth and traffic safety- present and prospective role SUB-THEME I: Training and law enforcement SUB-THEME II: Education Theme II: Youth and Traffic safety-Capabilities and Challenges SUB-THEME I: Attitude, behavior and environment effects SUB-THEME II: Technology and behavior Theme III: Youth and Traffic safety- national partnership and social corporate responsibility
The Prophet Mohammad Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH) mosque (i.e. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) was built in AlMa... more The Prophet Mohammad Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH) mosque (i.e. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) was built in AlMadina in the first year of Hijra and it is one of the oldest mosques in Islam after Quba mosque which is located outside AlMadinah. The mosque served as a place of worship, a community centre for the city, and a political and financial hub wherein political decisions were made; and national wealth and charity were declared and distributed to poor and needy. Since that time, mosques have had a special place in the hearts and minds of hundreds of millions of Muslims and have played a significant role in the formation of emerging Islamic societies. The motivation behind this conference is to promote and strengthen the role of mosques so they effectively respond to the rapid - sometimes unstable changes- in modern Islamic societies, environments, economies and negative effects of advancements in communication and technology systems. Thus it aims at looking for inspiring experiences and advanced intelligent solutions that would support and activate the mosque’s role so it would continue serving as a place to worship Allah (Subhanna Wa Ta'ala), provide relief to worshipers thus enabling them to socialize and get the immediate support of the Islamic community. Moreover, the target of the conference is to facilitate dialogue between researchers and participants on how to strengthen the central role of mosques in Islamic societies and how to create unbroken physical, social and psychological linkages between mosques with their local communities so it would help citizens adopt sustainable, healthy and Islamic lifestyles.
Young driver crashes are over represented in any country's crash statistics. This problem is more... more Young driver crashes are over represented in any country's crash statistics. This problem is more acute in developing countries where the law enforcement is not strict and the licensing structure is not well developed. According to World Health Organization (WHO) road crashes are the single greatest cause of death for men aged 15-29 years old. More than 8500 young drivers die each year in OECD countries and the death rates for young drivers are doubled than the older aged drivers. Young driver crashes and deaths cause great economic, social cost on individuals, families and societies. Many research studies have been conducted to find out the causes of crash and deaths though there is a conventional young driver training. The main factor is, the conventional youth training helps young learner to develop their driving skills and knowledge. But these do not help to gain real road driving experience. Research shows that the lack of driving experience, higher order perception and maturity increase young driver crash exposure. To this end, Graduated Licensing System (GDLS) have been developed. GDLS helps young drivers to focus on road driving experience and it divided the whole licensing process into different phases. Different jurisdiction may have different GDLS but the principle is same. It helps the young drivers to get supervised driving experience which help them to accumulate driving hours to get the provisional license. The GDLS helps not only in gaining experience in driving but also in developing the higher order perception (hazard perception) which is very much needed during driving. This paper however, argues that GDLS should not focus only on the development of better hazard perception and understanding the road environment for young drivers, but it should also incorporate other factors that affect road safety. The consultation of community concerning the development of the GDLS is essential as it would guarantee that risky factors are appreciated by young drivers at training stage before the practicing stage, which would minimize road crashes
The seminar has the theme Healthcare facilities design: Awareness, Knowledge and Application, and... more The seminar has the theme Healthcare facilities design: Awareness, Knowledge and Application, and it will be from 27 to 29 Muharam 1437H, corresponding 9-11 November 2015, at the College of Architecture and Planning, University of Dammam. The main issues discussed are: a. Healthcare facility design consideration and constraints b.Initial and on-going feedback loops from stakeholders to designers and vice versa c. Considering vertical and horizontal future expansions of healthcare facilities and changing needs of users d. Considering technical and social issues
Design studios are the incubators of innovation. Through these studios students learn innovative ... more Design studios are the incubators of innovation. Through these studios students learn innovative skills and how to use them to produce innovative solutions. These skills would also help students in finding innovative solutions to architectural problems during their professional practice. This paper discusses the outcomes of trends study conducted in 2009 and 2012 in the department of Architecture, College of Architecture at University of Dammam and a benchmarking study conducted on 2012 on two departments of Architecture. The target of these investigations is to find out the relationship between the social environment of design studios and the innovative design outcome. The field surveys included interviews and questionnaires in each department of Architecture. The study found a number of significant factors that affect negatively students’ ability to produce innovative projects. These include; the teaching style that aim at imposing tutor’s ideas on students; tutors and students have ambiguous understanding of innovative design precedents and how to utilize these examples in design projects and how these would be linked to the course’s objectives and methodology, and the lack of utilization of design studio’s discussions and negotiations in developing design projects. Finally, tutors are insensitive to the indications of students’ needs and there is a lack of awareness to students’ creative abilities.
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Summary by Bhzad Sidawi
have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due
to the absence of robust planning measures. This
causes lack or ill distributions of facilities and segregation
between these facilities and the residences
in districts and neighbourhoods across the Kingdom.
It also encouraged citizens to adopt unhealthy
lifestyles which in turn aggravated their health
conditions. This paper discusses the critical relationship
between the unhealthy lifestyle of diabetic
patients and the proximity of public gardens. A survey
on 76 diabetic patients and their living conditions
was carried out. A visual and mapping survey
was conducted on public gardens and vacant lands
around diabetics’ homes. The study found that cities
in the Eastern province, KSA have unhealthy urban
and suburban settings in terms of the proximity
and characteristics of public gardens. It is revealed
that patients have unhealthier lifestyle and frequent
diabetic symptoms when gardens are far away and
vacant lands are nearer to their homes. This calls
the need for emergent amendment of the present
planning regulations for the use of vacant lands and
public amenities including public gardens in Saudi
cities so they would help improving the physical,
psychological and spiritual health of the diabetic
patients and the community.
UK Research fellowship experience: 8 months
Professional experience 6 years in the UK+ 10 years in Syria
Number of scientific publications in scientific journals 32
Number of scientific publications recently accepted 1
Number of scientific publications in scientific conferences 28
Number of books published 10 books and a number of internal reports
Number of contributions to national and international scientific journals 26
Number of contributions to National & International Scientific Conferences, Symposia and Workshops 40
Number of academic courses taught 12 undergraduate and 3 postgraduate
Membership in national and international organizations 7
My email by Bhzad Sidawi
Papers by Bhzad Sidawi
negotiations and communications between designers are essential
to initiate creativity. Within the design studio environment, a number
of factors affect the healthy social interaction and design negotiations,
such as the teaching style of tutors and the culture that governs a
design studio environment. This may, in turn, affect the utilisation
of the outcome of negotiations in the design project. Design studio
students from the third to fifth years at the College of Architecture,
UoD were surveyed to find out how far the design studio culture and
communications would impact on the production of innovative design
projects. The results show that democratic communications and
establishing common grounds are essential to develop knowledge
and would influence positively the design outcome. On the other
hand, the research found that negative personal and design studio
environment’s qualities would hinder students’ creativity. However,
to develop students’ design/innovative abilities, the researcher
recommends that certain measures should be considered. These
would include shifting the focus of architectural design pedagogy
from the production of solution-based to innovative-based design
projects, transforming the design studio into an interactive and
friendly learning environment and the development of interactive
and communications skills of tutors.
manage remote construction projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It discusses two case studies; the first is
concerning a public services company whereas the other is about mega construction companies. Using observation,
questionnaires and interviews, the study found significant barriers to the utilization of ACM and these are ranged
according to their significance and the paper recommends proper solutions that facilitate the use of ACMS by
companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
prevent the decline of the patient condition. Accordingly, the Islamic built laws derived from Islamic Sharia have set the grounds of how to provide healthy built environment for citizens. Little research was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in regards to the effect of environmental conditions on the health status of diabetic people. In 2011, the present researchers have surveyed a number of diabetic patients to find out the possible impact of built environment settings on the patient’s lifestyle thus how far it would affect the progress of the diabetes. The results showed a close link between a poor home and environmental settings, the patient’s
lifestyle, and the health status. The paper argues that certain changes to the built environment must be done and to provide a healthy and safe environment for diabetic patients. The Islamic built laws would largely help in provisioning such healthy environment that helps people to live to abandon their bad habits and adopt healthier lifestyle.
long recognized by higher education institutes
around the world. It is proven that the success of use
largely depends on the user’s attitude and ability to
use the E-learning system. However, it was noticed
that students at the University of Dammam, College
of Architecture and Planning were reluctant to use
the E-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey
was launched in May 2014 and it aims to find out
why students do not utilize the E-learning system
and the utilization’s obstacles. The survey’s results
showed that many students relied heavily on the
Internet resources and online social networks, and
few of them have used the University’s E-learning
system and e-resources. The reason, as the students
pointed out that the E-learning system does not help
them in to undertake design studio’s activities, to
overcome difficult design situations, and produce
innovative projects. The students also highlighted
a number of personal and technical shortages that
limit the effective utilization of the E-learning system.
This paper argues that potential shortages of
the E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise,
the present E-learning system, as it is, will not
respond to the architecture students’ needs and inspirations.
students learn how to gain innovative skills and produce innovative solutions and this would be considered
as the real value of the design studio’s education. The design studio helps students to use problem-solving
approaches and skills during professional practice to develop innovative design outcomes. The purpose of this
paper is to investigate the relationship between the innovative design outcome and the social environment of
design studios in two departments of architecture, at the University of Dammam and King Fahd University
of Petroleum and Minerals. It has highlighted the key findings of the field survey and compared the relevant
importance of factors which hinder or promote initiative in the production of innovative design projects in each
department. Unique hindrances to innovation were found in each department and these were firmly linked to the
teaching style and the design studio’s culture. Therefore specific solutions on how to enhance social interaction
in the design studio and initiate the innovative abilities of students have been recommended to each department.
have experienced rapid uncontrolled urbanism due
to the absence of robust planning measures. This
causes lack or ill distributions of facilities and segregation
between these facilities and the residences
in districts and neighbourhoods across the Kingdom.
It also encouraged citizens to adopt unhealthy
lifestyles which in turn aggravated their health
conditions. This paper discusses the critical relationship
between the unhealthy lifestyle of diabetic
patients and the proximity of public gardens. A survey
on 76 diabetic patients and their living conditions
was carried out. A visual and mapping survey
was conducted on public gardens and vacant lands
around diabetics’ homes. The study found that cities
in the Eastern province, KSA have unhealthy urban
and suburban settings in terms of the proximity
and characteristics of public gardens. It is revealed
that patients have unhealthier lifestyle and frequent
diabetic symptoms when gardens are far away and
vacant lands are nearer to their homes. This calls
the need for emergent amendment of the present
planning regulations for the use of vacant lands and
public amenities including public gardens in Saudi
cities so they would help improving the physical,
psychological and spiritual health of the diabetic
patients and the community.
UK Research fellowship experience: 8 months
Professional experience 6 years in the UK+ 10 years in Syria
Number of scientific publications in scientific journals 32
Number of scientific publications recently accepted 1
Number of scientific publications in scientific conferences 28
Number of books published 10 books and a number of internal reports
Number of contributions to national and international scientific journals 26
Number of contributions to National & International Scientific Conferences, Symposia and Workshops 40
Number of academic courses taught 12 undergraduate and 3 postgraduate
Membership in national and international organizations 7
negotiations and communications between designers are essential
to initiate creativity. Within the design studio environment, a number
of factors affect the healthy social interaction and design negotiations,
such as the teaching style of tutors and the culture that governs a
design studio environment. This may, in turn, affect the utilisation
of the outcome of negotiations in the design project. Design studio
students from the third to fifth years at the College of Architecture,
UoD were surveyed to find out how far the design studio culture and
communications would impact on the production of innovative design
projects. The results show that democratic communications and
establishing common grounds are essential to develop knowledge
and would influence positively the design outcome. On the other
hand, the research found that negative personal and design studio
environment’s qualities would hinder students’ creativity. However,
to develop students’ design/innovative abilities, the researcher
recommends that certain measures should be considered. These
would include shifting the focus of architectural design pedagogy
from the production of solution-based to innovative-based design
projects, transforming the design studio into an interactive and
friendly learning environment and the development of interactive
and communications skills of tutors.
manage remote construction projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It discusses two case studies; the first is
concerning a public services company whereas the other is about mega construction companies. Using observation,
questionnaires and interviews, the study found significant barriers to the utilization of ACM and these are ranged
according to their significance and the paper recommends proper solutions that facilitate the use of ACMS by
companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
prevent the decline of the patient condition. Accordingly, the Islamic built laws derived from Islamic Sharia have set the grounds of how to provide healthy built environment for citizens. Little research was conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in regards to the effect of environmental conditions on the health status of diabetic people. In 2011, the present researchers have surveyed a number of diabetic patients to find out the possible impact of built environment settings on the patient’s lifestyle thus how far it would affect the progress of the diabetes. The results showed a close link between a poor home and environmental settings, the patient’s
lifestyle, and the health status. The paper argues that certain changes to the built environment must be done and to provide a healthy and safe environment for diabetic patients. The Islamic built laws would largely help in provisioning such healthy environment that helps people to live to abandon their bad habits and adopt healthier lifestyle.
long recognized by higher education institutes
around the world. It is proven that the success of use
largely depends on the user’s attitude and ability to
use the E-learning system. However, it was noticed
that students at the University of Dammam, College
of Architecture and Planning were reluctant to use
the E-learning system. So, a questionnaire survey
was launched in May 2014 and it aims to find out
why students do not utilize the E-learning system
and the utilization’s obstacles. The survey’s results
showed that many students relied heavily on the
Internet resources and online social networks, and
few of them have used the University’s E-learning
system and e-resources. The reason, as the students
pointed out that the E-learning system does not help
them in to undertake design studio’s activities, to
overcome difficult design situations, and produce
innovative projects. The students also highlighted
a number of personal and technical shortages that
limit the effective utilization of the E-learning system.
This paper argues that potential shortages of
the E-learning system should be dealt with; otherwise,
the present E-learning system, as it is, will not
respond to the architecture students’ needs and inspirations.
students learn how to gain innovative skills and produce innovative solutions and this would be considered
as the real value of the design studio’s education. The design studio helps students to use problem-solving
approaches and skills during professional practice to develop innovative design outcomes. The purpose of this
paper is to investigate the relationship between the innovative design outcome and the social environment of
design studios in two departments of architecture, at the University of Dammam and King Fahd University
of Petroleum and Minerals. It has highlighted the key findings of the field survey and compared the relevant
importance of factors which hinder or promote initiative in the production of innovative design projects in each
department. Unique hindrances to innovation were found in each department and these were firmly linked to the
teaching style and the design studio’s culture. Therefore specific solutions on how to enhance social interaction
in the design studio and initiate the innovative abilities of students have been recommended to each department.
Preface
Abstracts of Keynote speeches
Theme I: Youth and traffic safety- present and prospective role
SUB-THEME I: Training and law enforcement
SUB-THEME II: Education
Theme II: Youth and Traffic safety-Capabilities and Challenges
SUB-THEME I: Attitude, behavior and environment effects
SUB-THEME II: Technology and behavior
Theme III: Youth and Traffic safety- national partnership and social corporate responsibility
a. Healthcare facility design consideration and constraints
b.Initial and on-going feedback loops from stakeholders to designers and vice versa
c. Considering vertical and horizontal future expansions of healthcare facilities and changing needs of users
d. Considering technical and social issues