Students across all levels spend a good amount of their day inside the classroom. While there, they are often more exposed to artificial light sources than they are to natural light. This may result in unwanted effects, such as poor eyesight and attention problems.
The benefits of sunlight are well-known, and finding ways for natural light to enter into the classroom, such as through the use of a skylight, could prove beneficial to both students and teachers. It could even yield positive results for the institution itself. Here are six reasons why.
Lower energy costs
One of the best things about natural light is that it is absolutely free. It is also something that is readily available for most of the year. When sunlight is able to enter into a room, there is less of a need for the use of artificial light or heat sources.
By choosing to install more roof windows rather than light bulbs inside a classroom, schools will be able to save on energy expenses. The money saved because of these changes can later on be used for improvements, facilities or programs that will benefit the campus community.
Good classroom performance
Studies have shown that exposure to natural light helps improve a person’s alertness and focus. It also positively affects cognitive function, which pertains to brain activities connected to knowledge such as memory, reasoning and language.
Inside the classroom, this means that students are better able to pay attention to lectures, resulting in a better understanding of the subject matter, and ultimately, an improved student performance rate.
Healthier students
A lack of sunlight causes health issues such as Vitamin D deficiency. Another is myopia, an eye problem which typically springs from reading and writing under poor lighting conditions usually cause by the unavailability of natural light.
When means are taken to allow light from outside to enter into the classroom, students are faced with a lower risk of acquiring these, as well as other related health concerns, while they are in school.
Better ambience
The way that a classroom is designed can affect the learning and productivity rate of the students within it. An environment that is conducive for learning should be well-lit, properly ventilated, comfortable, and void of unnecessary distractions.
Making sunlight available within the classroom through the use of large windows and commercial skylights can greatly boost its ambience, and its appropriateness for learning. Natural light is brighter than light emitted by bulbs, resulting in less eye strain for students when reading and writing.
A happier community
Natural light has been found to positively benefit a person’s mood and disposition. This is because sunlight is made up of more blue-spectrum rays than artificial light. When our eyes are exposed to this, it triggers happiness in the brain. Letting more sunshine in can mean a mood boost for students and teachers alike.
An improved quality of life
Overall, when a school utilises natural light, it can lead to an improved quality of life for its entire community. Adequate sunlight exposure results in better, more restful sleep. It has also been found to give people higher energy levels, and an inclination towards physical activities. Finally, better class performance can mean greater confidence among students, while better moods may lead to healthier relationships among teachers and students.
To make your schools a more conducive environment for students and teachers, check out our range of skylights and roof windows. You may also call 1300 759 772 and we would be happy to help you come up with a natural lighting solution to fit your needs.