Comparative Analysis of Tropical Butterfly Garden and Kalehan Ecdat Park in Konya Selçuklu District in Terms of User Preferences

Abstract

This study aims to examine the demographic characteristics and park usage habits of users of Kalehan Ecdat Garden and Tropical Butterfly Garden located in the Selçuklu district of Konya province. The survey questions were prepared by including parameters such as users’ demographic characteristics (gender, age, education level, income level, and occupation), users’ preferences regarding park visits, their purposes for using parks, necessary units and equipment in parks, and the benefits and activities provided by parks. To obtain reliable results from the survey, the population size was calculated based on the 2024 population of Selçuklu district in Konya province. A total of 230 people participated in the survey. The collected data were determined using the Chi-Square analysis with the IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0.1 program. Frequency distributions were analyzed using the cross-tabulation method for the survey results. The data were evaluated using quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed as frequencies and percentages, and the relationships between demographic characteristics and park usage were examined. Qualitative data were evaluated using content analysis, and the relationships between park users’ expectations and needs and park characteristics were determined, and recommendations were developed. According to the research findings, Kalehan Ecdat Garden and Tropical Butterfly Garden appeal to different age, education, and social groups, influencing users’ park preferences and spatial preferences. While usage frequency, social context, transportation, and demographic characteristics shape the park experience, overall satisfaction has been achieved in terms of safety, hygiene, lighting, and urban furniture. Both parks meet user expectations to a large extent, making a significant contribution to the city’s need for open and green spaces.