Educational Buildings Research Articles

Quantification of Carbon Emissions of Building Decoration Processes

The continuous growth in building decoration activities has led to significant energy and material consumption, increasing carbon emissions in the construction sector. Existing literature frequently overlooks the carbon impact of building decorations. This study employs the life cycle assessment (LCA) method to quantify the carbon emissions associated with building decorations across five typic building types: residential, hospital, educational, sports cultural, and office buildings. Data were gathered using a mix of field investigations, document reviews, and semi-structured interviews, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all life cycle stages. The results reveal that carbon emission intensities of the studied building decorations ranged from 70.01 to 298.79 kg CO2 eq/m2, with the lowest emissions found in educational buildings and the highest in sports and cultural buildings. The decoration material production stage consistently emerges as the major contributor to emissions, accounting for over 50% of the life cycle of carbon emissions across all building types. The transportation stage also represents a significant share, contributing 18.6% to 24.5% across the building types. It also indicates that ceiling engineering as well as wall and column engineering are the primary carbon emission sources in terms of decoration activities. This study systematically compares the carbon emission characteristics of building decorations across multiple building types, addressing a gap that has been largely overlooked in the existing literature. It highlights the key sources of carbon emissions and proposes targeted mitigation strategies. The findings also suggest future research directions, including the application of innovative low-carbon materials, advanced construction technologies, and optimization of logistics. These insights lay a solid foundation for future low-carbon design and construction practices within the building sector.

Optimizing Outdoor Thermal Comfort for Educational Buildings: Case Study in the City of Riyadh

In hot, arid climates, educational buildings often face the challenge of limited outdoor space usage. This research, through comprehensive simulation, aims to propose practical solutions to enhance outdoor thermal comfort, particularly during school break times and student dismissal periods, thereby fostering more comfortable and functional outdoor school environments. That will happen through achieving the main objective of the study, which is evaluating the suggested passive strategies. Riyadh was selected as the case study, and four representative schools were analyzed through simulation and optimization processes to identify key areas for improvement. The research leveraged simulation tools such as Ladybug and Grasshopper in Rhino, highlighting the practicality and impact of this approach. Simulations were performed to assess the existing outdoor thermal conditions using the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) and to pinpoint regions with elevated thermal discomfort. Passive design interventions, such as shading devices and vegetation, were explored and optimized using the Galapagos in Grasshopper. This methodology supports the originality of this research in its integration of simulation tools, such as Ladybug and Grasshopper, with optimization techniques using the Galapagos plugin, specifically applied to the unique site-specific context of educational outdoor environments in a hot, dry climate in Riyadh. Additionally, insights for urban planners and architects demonstrate the possibility of integrating passive design principles to improve the usability and sustainability of outdoor spaces. The findings indicated that fewer apertures in shade devices combined with greater tree canopies might double the effectivity in lowering UTCI values, thereby enhancing thermal comfort, especially during peak summer months.

Influence of the Building’s Thermal Insulation on Intermittent Heating Mode Efficiency

Abstract The results of mathematical modeling of a building’s thermal insulation influence on the efficiency of intermittent heating mode are presented. This work aim is to assess the influence of thermal insulation on the efficiency of using the intermittent heating mode for the educational building of the Odessa National Polytechnic University’s Heat Engineering Laboratory. The paper analyzes the factors related to improving the efficiency of the programmed heat supply mode. Modeling of the operating modes for heat supply system operated in intermittent heating mode is carried out. There was performed the mathematical modeling of the heating system operation modes for the most unfavorable climatic conditions at low outdoor temperatures, with respective system efficiency indicators obtaining. The potential of energy saving level for administrative, educational, and office buildings depending on the thickness of thermal insulation of external and internal walls is studied. Recommendations have been elaborated for the use of buildings thermal insulation to improve the efficiency of intermittent heating.

Examining the Utilisation of Pascal’s Triangle for Community Development and Allocation of Resources in Eastern Uganda

Challenges ranging from resource scarcity to social deprivation and environmental concerns confront the East Region of Uganda. Let’s focus on Pascal’s Triangle as a conceptual model to deal with the problems of unjust resource distribution among communities. This model, which is a triangular arrangement of numbers, affords an opportunity to gain useful insights into community interactions and the process of resource distribution. Understanding Pascal’s triangle’s mathematical nature is a key driving force behind realistic and feasible resource allocation methods and community development approaches. Equal resource distribution methods, clear resource allocation mechanisms, community involvement, and multi-level cooperation are essential for promoting fairness and resilience. East Ugandan communities celebrate diversity as a resource for social cohesion, creativity, and resilience. Collaboration and unity are keys to getting over the difficulties and achieving great heights. It creates resilience and sustainability through community-based organisations, cooperative ventures, and participatory decision-making processes. When involved in solving complex problems, education serves as a key tool for empowering individuals and communities. Participatory decision-making creates a degree of transparency and representativeness in resource allocation. Merging community building and resource deployment with SDGs ensures sustainability and durability. Policies and programmes that address gender issues and encourage community participation are the keys to improving inclusivity. This review article examines Community Building and Resource Allocation: Learning from the Pascal Triangle in Eastern Uganda: Insights. We used data from the last decade (2014–2024) available from many reliable data sources. The findings advocate for community participation in decision-making, the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and social inclusion, collaboration among stakeholders, and the prioritization of education and capacity building, in addition to the integration of Sustainable Development Goals into community development plans and the strengthening of local governance institutions for equitable resource distribution. To solve complicated issues in the east of Uganda, it’s imperative to put more emphasis on equal resource allocation, community mobilisation, and social integration. Apply the insights from Pascal’s Triangle to foster communities that are adaptable, inclusive, and stable. Keywords: Community Building, Resource Allocation, Pascal’s Triangle, East Uganda, Resilience, Sustainable Development Goals

The impact of nanomaterials on energy-centric form-finding of educational buildings in semi-arid climate

In the modern world, the use of novel technologies in architecture has become highly significant and transformative for human-environment interactions. One of the most critical concerns in architecture is achieving optimal forms and selecting suitable materials for effective design across diverse climatic zones. Also, adopting innovative climate design methods in public spaces, such as educational buildings, is essential due to their strategic urban locations and diverse user populations. Therefore, the research conducted in this study focuses on two main aspects: optimizing building form based on energy consumption and solar radiation received by vertical surfaces, and, selecting appropriate nanomaterials for building surface to reduce energy usage and maintenance costs. This study begins with theoretical foundations, defining the key terms through a comprehensive review of relevant literature. Then, four identical classroom modules with consistent height and floor levels are proposed, and Energy Plus software is used to evaluate the energy consumption based on a module simulation in initial forms of square and rectangle with varying proportions. The best module and orientation is determined using specified climatic data of the coldest and the hottest days of the year. Further, investigations involve combining these modules in various layouts, emphasizing those that align with the functional requirements of educational spaces. Finally, two parameters of energy consumption and solar radiation on vertical surfaces are measured during specified time interval between sunrise and sunset. The results indicate that among the four proposed modules, the 18 × 18 module with a north-south orientation is the most optimal in the semi-arid climate of Tehran, and therefore, Type 3 layout demonstrates the best performance for energy consumption. This is while by incorporating selected nanotechnology (self-cleaning nanomaterial paint), energy usage decreases in all layouts, regardless of the season.

Teleophthalmology Through Online Mentorship Over a 20-Year Period: Education and Capacity Building.

Telemedicine is widely used for diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, and other ophthalmic diseases. However, there is limited research on the use of teleophthalmology in retinoblastoma. The goal of this study was to explore how Orbis Cybersight affected the capacity for treatment and management of children with retinoblastoma through online mentorship and to assess the efficacy of online mentoring through disease-specific knowledge change over time. A retrospective review of Orbis Cybersight retinoblastoma consultations from 2004 to 2023 was conducted. Each participant was scored from 0 to 39 points on the basis of information provided throughout the consultation. These points were separated into six categories: patient history, clinical findings, grouping/staging, diagnostic findings, treatment plan, and patient and ocular outcomes. Data were analyzed by linear regression models to identify changes over time. Among 653 patients from 38 different mentees, significant improvement in total points over time was observed (β = .012 [SE, 0.004]; P = .009). The mean score for total points at first consult was 17.7 (standard deviation [SD], 3.5) and at fifth consult was 19.8 (SD, 5.2). Three management categories showed significant improvement: clinical findings (P = .005), grouping/staging (P < .0001), and patient and ocular outcomes (P = .002). However, there was a significant decline in patient history points over time (P = .0006). Mentorship via Orbis Cybersight improved retinoblastoma disease-specific knowledge and management over a 20-year period. Tele-education provides an opportunity for disease-specific capacity building in low- and middle-income countries for the treatment of retinoblastoma.

Demand Response Potential of an Educational Building Heated by a Hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump System

Demand response (DR) enhances building energy flexibility, but its application in hybrid heating systems with dynamic pricings remains underexplored. This study applied DR via heating setpoint adjustments based on dynamic electricity and district heating (DH) prices to a building heated by a hybrid ground source heat pump (GSHP) system coupled to a DH network. A cost-effective control was implemented to optimize the usage of GSHP and DH with power limitations. Additionally, four DR control algorithms, including two single-price algorithms based on electricity and DH prices and two dual-price algorithms using minimum heating price and price signal summation methods, were tested for space heating under different marginal values. The impact of DR on ventilation heating was also evaluated. The results showed that applying the proposed DR algorithms to space heating improved electricity and DH flexibilities without compromising indoor comfort. A higher marginal value reduced the energy flexibility but increased cost savings. The dual price DR control algorithm using the price signal summation method achieved the highest cost savings. When combined with a cost-effective control strategy and power limitations, it reduced annual energy costs by up to 10.8%. However, applying the same DR to both space and ventilation heating reduced cost savings and significantly increased discomfort time.

Sociological study of the digital culture of a university teacher (using the example of the Moscow State Linguistic University)

In the article, based on the study conducted by the sociological laboratory of the Moscow State Linguistic University (hereinafter referred to as MSLU), the essence and level of digital culture of a university teacher are determined, problematic areas of digitalisation of the educational process are identified, which require urgent measures to improve the current situation in the higher education system of the Russian Federation. The study has proved that the digital culture of the university teacher is their digital social competence formed in the course of professional activity as well as the driving force that determines the attitude towards the digitalisation of the educational process. The development level of the digital culture of a teacher at a linguistic university is below average. The majority of respondents have digital skills and use basic digital technologies in the learning process. The level of proficiency among teachers of the MSLU is comparable to the level of development of these skills among teachers at other Russian universities. At the same time, in terms of the level of competence in developing online courses and using their materials as additional educational material, teachers of the MSLU lag behind the all-Russian indicators. The main problematic areas of the digitalisation of the educational process are: low degree of equipment of audiences with modern technical means; low quality and availability of Internet communications on the territory of educational buildings; insufficient opportunities to improve the level of the digital culture of teaching staff in the field of modern digital technologies, etc.

초등학생의 학습 동기와 학습 의지의 관계

Objectives The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between elementary school students' learning motivation and learning volition. Specifically, by analyzing the impact of learning motivation on learning volition, we identified the role of learning motivation as a strategy to enhance elementary students' learning volition. Additionally, we provided concrete recommendations divided into teacher, school, and parent levels. Methods To investigate the relationship between learning motivation and learning volition, 216 elementary school students were surveyed to measure these variables. Correlation analysis and regression analysis were conducted to analyze the impact of learning motivation on learning volition. Results The results of the regression analysis indicated that learning motivation has a significant effect on learning volition. In particular, among the sub-dimensions of learning motivation, achievement motivation and self-efficacy positively influenced the sub-dimensions of learning volition, which include behavioral control, learning effort, and learning perseverance. It was confirmed that the higher the learning motivation, the higher the learning volition. Conclusions This study suggests that enhancing learning motivation is important for improving elementary school students' learning volition. Specifically, teachers should provide personalized learning and emotional support to boost students' learning motivation and self-efficacy, and schools should establish support systems for customized educational programs and teacher capacity building to back this up. Parents should create an environment that enhances their children's learning motivation and supports self-directed learning. Through these efforts, concrete strategies to enhance students' learning volition should be sought.

Traffic noise prediction model using GIS and ensemble machine learning: a case study at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Campus.

This study represents a pioneering effort to integrate geographic information systems (GIS) and ensemble machine learning methods to predict noise levels on a university campus. Three ensemble models including random forest (RF), gradient boosting (GB), and extreme gradient boosting (XGB) were developed to predict traffic noise based on data collected over a 4-week period at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) campus. Noise measurements were obtained during peak morning hours (7:30 to 9:30 a.m.) on weekdays within the UTM campus in Johor. Additional predictor variables, including data from the digital elevation model (DEM) and land use, were incorporated to capture the complex nonlinear relationships influencing noise levels. The models were optimized through hyperparameter tuning, resulting in high precision, as evidenced by performance metrics such as the coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean squared error (MSE). The XGB model emerged as the most accurate, with R2 = 0.96, MAE = 0.9, and MSE = 0.3. Noise maps generated using the inverse distance weighting (IDW) interpolation technique highlighted the spatial distribution of noise levels, classified into five classes considering WHO standards. The findings identified distance from roads, the number of light vehicles, and proximity to green areas as the most significant predictors. However, challenges remain in accurately predicting noise levels associated with other predictors. The outcomes of the study indicate the superior performance of the XGB model compared to the GB and RF models. The study recommends several measures to manage and control noise pollution on the UTM campus, including raising awareness, regulating and enforcing vehicle speed limits, reevaluating land use, installing sound insulation systems, and planting trees and vegetation buffer zones around and within educational buildings.

A Study on Factors for Religious Faith of Muslim Youth in China

This study investigates the factors influencing the religious faith of Hui Muslim youth in China, focusing on internal and external elements. The study used a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews done in multiple mosques in Shanghai. Examined include external elements such as social integration, governmental policies, and educational environments, as well as internal factors such as personal beliefs, family influence, and community support. The results show that among young Hui Muslims, self-interest and family support are strongly associated with stronger religious faith. Moreover, the employment of digital media and virtual communities has emerged as a crucial component in fostering religious engagement, offering new avenues for religious education and community building. This study provides insights for policymakers, educators, and religious leaders to better support the religious and cultural needs of Hui Muslim youth in China.

Empirical study of facade retrofits for optimizing energy efficiency and cooling in school buildings in Saudi Arabia

Educational buildings in Saudi Arabia are characterized by high energy consumption, primarily due to cooling and lighting demands. This study aims to evaluate and optimize facade retrofitting strategies to improve energy efficiency and evaluate economic performance of many scenarios in Saudi school buildings, aligning with the sustainability objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The research employs a simulation-based optimization methodology utilizing Design Builder software to explore key facade design variables, including Window-to-Wall Ratio, glazing type, local shading devices, and external wall insulation. The methodology is structured in sequential stages: it begins with the collection of base-case data, followed by a data-driven optimization process targeting specific design variables. This is then complemented by an economic and environmental assessment of the optimal retrofit scenarios, ultimately leading to the identification of the most effective energy-saving solution presented at the conclusion of the study. Through an optimization process, the research identifies retrofitting strategies that reduce cooling loads by up to 17 %, lighting energy consumption by 49 % and annual energy costs by 18 %. The study also includes an economic analysis of the retrofits, revealing significant savings in annual electricity costs and a reduction in the building's carbon footprint. This research contributes valuable insights into sustainable building practices, offering practical solutions for improving energy efficiency in the educational sector. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive analysis of facade retrofits within the context of extreme climatic conditions, which provides a replicable model for retrofitting educational buildings across the region. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, architects, and sustainability advocates seeking to meet Saudi Arabia's energy conservation goals.

Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Pendidikan Agama Katolik dengan Model PBL dalam materi Raja Salomo yang bijaksana Kelas V SDN 21 Hasinggaan

. This research aims to improve students' learning outcomes in the subject of Catholic Religious Education and Character Building by using the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method in the lesson on King Solomon's wisdom for Grade V at SDN 21 Hasinggaan, Phase C. The PBL method was chosen because it encourages students to think critically, creatively, and become more active in the learning process. This Classroom Action Research (CAR) was conducted in two cycles, each consisting of the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data obtained from student learning evaluations showed a significant improvement after the application of the PBL method. Additionally, observations during the learning process indicated an increase in students' active participation and understanding of the material. Therefore, the PBL method has proven to be effective in enhancing students' learning outcomes in the lesson on King Solomon's wisdom in Grade V of elementary school.

Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Melalui PBL bagi Peserta Didik Kelas VII SMPN 3 Pantai Labu

The low student achievment of catholic religious education and character building at lesson I have Abbility grade VII SMPN 3 Pantai labu was the problem background this research. This research aims to reminded student achievement through the problem-based learning model in PAK grade VII SMP Negeri 3 Pantai LabuThis type of research is classroom action research (PTK) which consist of two cycles. The research subject of students in grade VII SMP Negeri 3 Pantai Labu amounted to seven students consisting of five male students and two female students. The data collection technique in this study uses observation, test and documentation. The result of study was that the average score of students in the first cycle was fivety two then increased ninety in the second cycle. The improvement was seen significantly. This can be seen from the fact that number of students has increase quite a bit by fourty-four percent. This means that, if the PBL learning model is implements properly and consistently, it will improve student learning outcomes.

Climate Change and Building Renovation: The Impact of Historical, Current, and Future Climatic Files on a School in Central Italy

Climate change significantly affects the operating environment of buildings. These changes impact both energy efficiency and occupants’ comfort and remain crucial even in building restoration, where design decisions typically rely on historical data, yet performance depends on anticipated future scenarios. The present work evaluates the impact of different climate datasets on dynamic energy simulations for an educational building in Central Italy, focusing on estimating heating demands across historical, current, and future climatic scenarios. The assessment considers both the building’s current state and potential energy-efficient retrofits. Initially, various meteorological datasets, including measured and model-generated data, are selected to predict key weather parameters. The analysis reveals the potential and limitations of regional climate models (RCMs) in estimating these variables, with the MM5 dataset emerging as the most reliable. Subsequently, the energy performance of the reference building and its vulnerability to climate change are assessed. Our results show significant differences in energy demand based on construction periods, with the oldest section consuming 29% to 54% more energy monthly than the newer sections. Moreover, using non-representative climatic files can lead to prediction errors of up to 199%. Finally, the building’s energy behaviour is analysed under future climate conditions by generating typical meteorological years (TMYs) for 2030, 2050, and 2070. This analysis evaluates the energy requirements for both existing and retrofitted building configurations. The findings confirm that retrofit interventions with high-performance insulation and upgraded windows significantly enhance the building’s energy efficiency and resilience to future climate conditions, leading to annual energy savings of 50% to 57%.

Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Siswa Melalui Model Pembelajaran Project Based Learning (PjBL) di SMP Negeri 1 Sungai Pinyuh Kabupaten Mempawah

This Classroom Action Research was conducted in the subject of Catholic Religious Education and Character Building for Grade VII at SMP Negeri 1 Sungai Pinyuh, Mempawah Regency, with the aim of implementing the Project Based Learning (PjBL). The PjBL model was chosen because it has the potential to encourage active student involvement in the learning process by completing projects that are relevant to the subject matter. This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) consisting of two cycles. The subjects of the research were 12 seventh-grade students.The research results show that in Cycle I, the average score was 73.33, categorized as Fair. Meanwhile, in Cycle II, the average score increased to 86.67, categorized as Good. Although there was still one student in Cycle II who had not yet met the required standard, the class-wide mastery of 80% was achieved, and the student in question participated in independent remedial activities. The improvement in students' post-test scores can be seen from the average score. The average score increased from 73.33, categorized as Fair, to 86.67, categorized as Good, with a 33.33% increase in student mastery. Thus, the PjBL model is effective in improving learning outcomes and student involvement in the learning process at SMP Negeri 1 Sungai Pinyuh.

Insights from the "Acoustics Workshop in Educational Buildings" by Turkish Acoustical Society

This paper focuses on "Acoustics Workshop in Educational Buildings" organized by the Turkish Acoustical Society as part of International Noise Awareness Day 2023 Activities. The workshop brought together 34 participants, including designers, acoustic experts, teachers, and health and occupational safety professionals. Through interdisciplinary discussions, participants identified and prioritized acoustic problems, expectations and requirements for educational buildings, focusing on improving the quality of education. The workshop unfolded in two stages: firstly, participants were grouped by profession to identify primary acoustic challenges. Subsequently, multi-disciplinary teams collaboratively developed mitigation strategies to address these challenges. The results revealed profession-specific insights into main acoustic issues and proposed actionable solutions. This paper specifically provides insights into the use of qualitative content analysis to have a deeper understanding of different professions, people's experiences, behavior and priorities in relation to acoustics in school.

Peningkatan Kreativitas Dan Kemandirian Belajar Peserta Didik Melalui Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning di SMP Negeri 6 Toho

This Classroom Action Research was conducted in the subject of Catholic Religious Education and Character Building for Grade VII at SMP Negeri 6 Toho, Mempawah Regency, with the aim of implementing the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model to enhance students' creativity and learning independence. This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) consisting of two cycles. The subjects of the research were 11 seventh-grade students. The results showed that students' creativity and learning independence in Catholic Religious Education and Character Building, through the application of the Problem-Based Learning model, in Cycle I, the category of learning independence was low, at 49.43%, and in Cycle II, it increased to 80.68%. The improvement from Cycle I to Cycle II was 31.02%, with the achievement indicator reaching ≥ 80%. Furthermore, the observation results of students' creative thinking in Cycle I showed a creativity level of 67.5%, categorized as "Fair," and in Cycle II it increased to 87.5%, categorized as "Good." The improvement from Cycle I to Cycle II was 20%, with the achievement indicator reaching ≥ 80%. As for students' learning outcomes, the mastery level in Cycle I was 18.18%, and in Cycle II it reached 100%, showing an increase of 81.82% from Cycle I to Cycle II. The achievement indicator reached ≥ 80%. Lastly, the teacher's competence was observed to be in the "Good" category.

Determination of reverberation time in large educational auditoriums

According to the current regulation, acoustic comfort in educational buildings in Lithuania is ensured by applying sound insulation of structures and limiting excessive room reverberation. The maximum reverberation time values described in the document depend on the building's acoustic comfort class, room volume and frequency range. In order to determine the design values of the reverberation time for larger auditoriums, there is a need for consultations with an acoustic expert. This paper presents some typical examples of reverberation time measurements in new, old and modernized large lecture halls. The measurement results indicate good practice in the design and installation of new auditorium, as well as the nature and importance of acoustic problems in old and modernized ones. The analysis of the measurement results allows us to assume that the success of the project's acoustic quality often depends on the designer's ability to properly assess the design indicators and the properties of applied materials.

Ambient noise criteria framework for future environmental noise mitigation targets in Singapore

This study aims to establish a framework for outlining future noise mitigation strategies tailored to the unique context of Singapore and evaluates potential precautions. Singapore, as a city-state, is known as a 'city in a garden,' situated in the typically tropical climate. By incorporating a comparative analysis of noise criteria from local guidelines across countries from Europe, America, and Asia, the study aims to place Singapore's acoustic limits within an international context. This comparison, enhanced with the World Health Organization's health and well-being standards, seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for acoustical design assessment in residential, office, and educational buildings targeting resting and cognitive functions. In conclusion, starting from a global perspective, the study points to the importance of focusing on the local context and acknowledging the challenges and benefits that the context brings for acoustical comfort. The study discusses the importance of context and content in crafting acoustical design criteria, considering the impact of biophilic design and active noise cancellation windows to achieve adaptive acoustic comfort in Singapore's built environment.