Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Visual comfort is a critical component of indoor environmental quality in schools, where lighting conditions influence visual performance, attention, and perceived well-being. In dense urban fabrics and semi-arid climates, classrooms often face a dual constraint: limited effective daylight use due to glare, privacy, and noise, alongside over-reliance on inadequately tuned electric lighting. This paper proposes a structured methodological framework for assessing visual comfort through an integrated workflow that combines field-based diagnostics (spot illuminance measurements and photographic documentation), occupant feedback, and simulation-based illustration using DIALux Evo. An illustrative, case-based application in public schools in Hebron City (Palestine) demonstrates how the framework supports interpretive understanding of recurring conditions, such as uneven illuminance distribution and potential glare-related situations, using standards (e.g., EN 12464-1) as non-evaluative reference points. The study does not claim performance compliance, certification, or predictive validation. It outlines how AI-assisted decision support may be incorporated in future work to enable scalable early-stage assessments across classroom typologies.
Source: Arsitekno
Authors: Hazim Seder, Janani Selvam, Najib Al-Ashwal
Institutions: Lincoln University College, University of Technology Malaysia
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7149554657