Student Perception and Indoor Environmental Quality Assessment of Classrooms at UTAR
List of Authors
AbdulLateef Olanrewaju, Hassan Youssouf, Khor Soo Cheen
Keyword
Classroom Environment; Indoor Air Quality (IAQ); Student Perception
Abstract
This study at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysia, investigated student perceptions of the classroom environment and thermal comfort within the Learning Complex, correlating subjective feedback with objective environmental measurements. The goal was to identify critical factors influencing student satisfaction, well-being, and academic performance. A student survey (n=68) revealed thermal comfort issues, particularly regarding temperature and ventilation. Environmental measurements were conducted, using a Particle Counter for fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and a Heat Stress Tracker for temperature and humidity, across six classrooms in the Learning Complex. The results indicated alarmingly high PM2.5 levels, averaging 108.63 µg/m3 per classroom, more than three times the WHO-recommended threshold of 35 µg/m3. In contrast, PM10 levels complied with WHO guidelines. These high PM2.5 emissions are likely due to inadequate ventilation and filtration systems, suggesting an internal source of pollution, given the university's natural setting. The findings emphasise the urgent need to optimise ventilation systems and improve air filtration to ensure a healthier, more comfortable learning environment, directly addressing factors critical to student satisfaction and performance.