The University of Twente and Philips are conducting joint
research into the effectiveness of a light system specially
designed by Phillips for schools. The new system allows teachers to
control the light intensity as well as the colour temperature to
suit classroom activities. Initial findings show that children in
classes where the system is used score on average 8.7 percent
higher in concentration tests. More importantly, their
concentration levels continue to increase with time. A month later,
the pupils scored an average of 13.6 percent higher.
In collaboration with the research groups Educational
Organisation and Management and Marketing Communication
& Consumer Psychology at the University of Twente, Philips
is conducting research into the effects of school lighting on the
learning process of primary school pupils. The research is being
conducted at Veldvest Primary School in the village of Wintelre in
the south Netherlands using a new light system developed by Philips
called SchoolVision. Initial results, which focused on
concentration levels, showed that light had an immediate and
sustained effect on a child's concentration span. Children in
classes where the system was installed scored on average 8.7
percent higher in a concentration test. Moreover, during the first
month of the light system being in place, their concentration
levels continued to rise and a month later the pupils recorded an
average of 13.6 percent. Further findings showed that children who
struggled with reading tasks scored an average 10.3 percent higher
in a concentration test than those not using the new light
system.
In practice
The initial research results corroborate the school's
experience, as Jane van der Heijden, headmistress of Veldvest
Primary School, explains. "We begin in the morning with a bright
light that has an energizing effect and usually end the day with a
warm light that has a calming effect and is conducive to discussion
or creative activities. Both the pupils as well as the teaching
staff benefit from the change in lighting. We are very impressed
with the results of the SchoolVision lighting."
The Research
The impetus for the project was the need for a greater
understanding of the effects of lighting on learning abilities, a
subject little researched to date. Researchers addressed the
question: 'Can variety in light intensity and colour have a
positive effect on the concentration levels, behaviour, well-being
and performance levels of children at primary school?' The system
was installed in November 2009, with the first concentration and
ratings tests carried out in December 2009. A second school, De
Rank Primary School in Veldhoven, is also participating in the
SchoolVision project. A total of 98 pupils across two schools and
four classes are taking part in the 9-month research project.
SchoolVision
SchoolVision lighting is a lighting system that allows users to
control the light intensity and colour temperature to suit
classroom activities. With the aid of a control panel, teaching
staff can adjust the lighting as required. They can choose between
the following settings: Energy, Calm, Standard and
Concentration.
The University of Twente's research method comprises different
phases and measurements. The researchers tested the hypothesis that
certain light settings improve concentration, reduce restlessness
and increase motivation. The next steps in the study will look at
the long-term effects of light on children's motivation, well-being
and performance levels. The final results will be presented in
September.
For more information you can contact one of the following persons:
Science writer UT
Joost Bruysters
+ 31 53 - 4892773
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