Classroom lighting for study and show: A pilot study in a testbed designed to explore and showcase future learning environments

Lighting conditions and room atmosphere are crucial aspects to consider for ensuring performance, comfort and well-being in a learning environment, where the transfer of information and interaction occur during different learning activities. To investigate requirements in learning environments, a lecture room was converted into a dynamic testbed featuring adjustable lighting systems, flexible furniture configurations and real-time monitoring of indoor environmental quality parameters via an advanced Internet of Things sensing network. An evaluation of the testbed was conducted in a pilot field study, utilising three lighting scenes. Participants rated subjective alertness and perception of the lit environment in the scenes: Lecture, Workshop and Presentation. Physical measurements of lighting conditions and exposure were continuously recorded with static and ambulatory instruments. The data were statistically analysed, and the results showed satisfaction with the lighting. Furthermore, a reasonable alertness was maintained despite a preference for lighting levels lower than recommended.