Assessing classroom indoor environment from a user-centric perspective : a preliminary study

Abstract

Background and aim - This paper emphasises the significance of evaluating classroom indoor environment performance from the perspective of students. Recognising this need, this study adopted a user-centric approach to evaluate students’ perception of classroom environment based on a university in Hong Kong. The aim was to gain insights into the significance that students attribute to various parameters of the indoor classroom environment. Methods / Methodology - This study devised and implemented a user-centric performance assessment framework based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), as well as a survey based on the framework. 288 students from various types of classrooms participated in the survey, in which they ranked the perceived relevance of multiple classroom environment performance parameters according to their perceived significance. Analysed were the weightings and rankings of the performance parameters. Results - The ranking results derived from the AHP analysis shed light on the students' perceptions of the relative significance of various environmental parameters. The fact that "facilities and services" received the highest weighting for importance demonstrates the significance of post-occupancy operation management. Male students place more importance on "indoor air quality" than female students do on "thermal comfort" Students in lecture halls prioritise "seating plans" and "temperature" whereas students in general classrooms prioritise "seating layout" and "fire safety". Practical or social implication - The findings of this study have practical implications for higher education institutions in designing and managing classroom environments. They recommend considering factors such as classroom layout, illumination, temperature control, and acoustics to create optimal learning spaces. By adopting a user-centric approach and actively seeking student feedback, educational institutions can continually improve indoor classroom environments, ultimately contributing to enhanced learning outcomes. Prioritizing comfort, engagement, and adaptability in classroom design can play a pivotal role in promoting academic success in higher education settings.