A design thinking initiative towards studying classroom indoor climate

Kumar Mishra, Asit; O’Reilly ,  Eilis J.; Wargocki, Pawel

A design thinking initiative towards studying classroom indoor climate

Files

IEQ 2025 Submission ID 1199.pdf(382.97 KB)

Accepted Version

Date

2025

Authors

Kumar Mishra, Asit

O’Reilly , Eilis J.

Wargocki, Pawel

Publisher

ASHRAE

Abstract

This pilot study explores the application of a design thinking (DT) framework to work towards creating a fit-for-purpose methodology for studying school classroom indoor climate. Conducted in three schools in the capital region of Denmark, the study engaged students and teachers as end-users to understand their needs and expectations regarding indoor climate. The DT framework, traditionally used in product design, was adapted for indoor climate research. We focused on three of the five DT phases: Empathize, Clarify, and Ideate. During interaction sessions, we discussed with students the different indoor climate parameters (temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and PM2.5), relevant reference levels, and potential monitoring methods. Following these sessions, classrooms were equipped with monitors to measure these parameters over a two-to-four-week period. After the monitoring phase, we returned to present summarized data to the students. Together, we reviewed the data, identified variations in readings, discussed what could be the reason behind certain patterns, and brainstormed potential mitigatory steps and long-term monitoring strategies. The outcomes of this work include the development of ideation and engagement tools, as well as feedback from the children on indoor climate monitoring. Through our work we intended to demonstrate the potential of a design thinking approach to ensure meaningful participation from end-users. This would help is design more inclusive and effective studies on classroom thermal comfort and air quality.

Keywords

Design thinking (DT) , School classroom indoor climate , Inclusive

Citation

Kumar Mishra, A. , O'Reilly, E. J. and Wargocki, P. (2025) 'A design thinking initiative towards studying classroom indoor climate', IEQ 2025 Conference, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 24-26 September 2025.