The Influence of Indoor Environmental Quality on Perceived Quality of Learning in Classrooms for Higher Education

Henk Brink, Mark P. Mobach, Marcel G.L.C. Loomans, Helianthe S.M. Kort

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Background and aim – In this study, it is pre-supposed that the indoor environmental conditions of classrooms can contribute to the quality of the educational process. Thermal, acoustic and visual conditions and indoor air quality (IAQ) may be extremely supportive in order to support the in-class tasks of teachers and students. This study explores the influence of these conditions on the perceived comfort and quality of learning of students in higher education.
Methodology – In a case study design, the actual IEQ of 34 classrooms which are spread over four school buildings in North Netherlands and 276 related student perceptions were collected. The measurements consisted of in situ physical measurements. At the same moment the perceived indoor environmental quality (PIEQ) and the perceived quality of learning (PQL) of students were measured with a questionnaire.
Results – Observed are high carbon dioxide concentrations and high background noise levels. A relation was observed between perceived acoustic and visual conditions, IAQ, and the PQL indicating that a poor IEQ affects the PQL. A linear regression analyses showed that in this study the perceived impact on the quality of learning was mainly caused by perceived acoustic comfort.
Originality – With the applied innovative measuring instrument it is possible to measure both the actual IEQ as well as the PIEQ and PQL. This method can also be used to assess a reference and intervention condition.
Practical or social implications – The applied measuring instrument provides school management with information about the effectiveness of improved IEQ and students’ satisfaction, which can be the basis for further improvement.
Type of paper – Research paper.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCompanion proceedings of the European Facility Management International Conference 2020
Pages11
Number of pages19
Publication statusPublished - 15 Sept 2020
EventEuropean Facility Management International Conference (EFMIC) 2020, EuroFM Network, 1 October 2020, online conference - online conference
Duration: 1 Sept 20201 Sept 2020

Conference

ConferenceEuropean Facility Management International Conference (EFMIC) 2020, EuroFM Network, 1 October 2020, online conference
Period1/09/201/09/20

Keywords

  • acoustic comfort
  • indoor air quality
  • indoor environment
  • thermal comfort
  • quality of learning
  • cognitive performance
  • visual comfort

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