Developing and Validating a Scale to Measure Residents’ Perceptions and Support for World Heritage Site Conservation: Evidence from Fasil Ghebbi, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract

Despite existing research on residents’ perceptions, factors influencing their perceptions, and support for the conservation of World Heritage Sites, inconsistencies remain in the identified factors and their measurement across prior studies. Moreover, validated measurement scales specifically addressing residents’ perceptions of the impacts of World Heritage Sites are lacking, especially in the context of the Fasil Ghebbi World Heritage Site. Recognizing this gap, a pilot study was conducted from April to June 2025, aiming to validate items measuring residents’ perceptions, the factors affecting their perceptions, and support for World Heritage Site conservation. The study used a mixed-methods approach with a sequential explanatory design. Qualitative data were collected from 14 purposively selected participants, while quantitative data were collected through 100 observations using purposive sampling. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify underlying latent variables. Factor extraction relied on Kaiser’s criterion and scree test, while communalities and factor loadings guided item retention. Out of 90 initial items, 67 were validated across 14 factors, including perceived economic (5), socio-cultural (8), and environmental benefits (3); economic (4), socio-cultural (5), and environmental costs (4); place attachment (5); World Heritage Site knowledge (4); cultural attitude (4); community involvement (3); community gain (3); community members’ gain (5); trust in government (6); and support for World Heritage Site conservation (8). The study provides valuable insights for feasibility assessment, averting redundant efforts, and enabling decision-makers to design tailored strategies that foster perceived benefits, diminish costs, and strengthen inclusive community involvement in World Heritage Site conservation.