Sensação e percepção de conforto lumínico em escolas de ensino fundamental no clima quente e úmido

Abstract

The school environment is home to a large part of a child's life. To guarantee quality in learning and health, it is necessary that these environments provide minimum comfort conditions. In this context, lighting is a variable to be considered, considering that an adequately lit environment can prevent vision problems (such as myopia and eye strain) and help stimulate cognitive performance, among other factors. Therefore, the present research starts from the investigation and evaluation of lighting comfort in municipal elementary schools in the city of João Pessoa - PB, with the objective of identifying the lighting and visual sensations and preferences of children aged 8 to 12 years. Using questionnaires administered to children and environmental measurements, the research addressed issues related to lighting in schools. Discrepancies between students desiring more brightness and those preferring darker environments were observed, impacting overall satisfaction with the lighting. While the majority of students could see the board well, difficulties with distant elements were identified, and symptoms such as headaches and eye discomfort were reported, albeit not universally. Students' opinions on visual comfort varied, emphasizing the appreciation of opportunities to look out the window and a positive perception of the classroom's aesthetics. However, variations were noted in perceptions regarding the external landscape and the colors of the room. Lighting measurements revealed differences between schools, emphasizing the need to assess and improve lighting in specific areas. Results indicated the importance of proper light distribution, associated with increased lighting at eye level to perceive the room as brighter. Significant associations between light quality and satisfaction were found, with males demonstrating lower satisfaction. The preference for darker lighting was associated with an increased likelihood of seeing text on the desk, while the preference for brighter rooms increased the chances of students looking out the window. The users' age also influenced the probability of liking the external view. These findings underscore the need to consider individual and contextual preferences to enhance visual comfort in educational institutions.