Lighting for Classroom at Faculty of Dentistry Mahidol University

Abstract

         This study researches on the proper quantity of artificial lighting used in multimedia classrooms to make guidelines for lighting design and to improve lighting quality in the classrooms by using the data collected from variety of lecture classrooms in Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University. The survey classifies lecture classrooms into 3 sizes by capacities, which are small, medium and large. The data collected are physical characteristics of the classrooms, type and position of lamps, classroom usages and lighting quantity in the classrooms. The results are then compared with the current average standard lighting value.

         The study found that the average lighting quantity of 3 sizes of classrooms, artificial and natural lighting combined, are mostly sufficient and meet the classroom illumination standard which is 300 Lux. Small classrooms have an average lighting quantity of 656.06 Lux. Medium classrooms have an average lighting quantity of 739 Lux while large classrooms have an average lighting quantity of 389.66 Lux. However, for the students to be able to see the board and projector screen while writing and reading comfortably, lighting quantity control is needed. Therefore, the lighting design for classrooms needs to considered the lamp layout and the light switch design by separating the teaching area light from general light to control the light used for studying. Moreover, high ceiling requires more lamps for the classroom to have sufficient lighting quantity. In the classroom with limited space, the ceiling height should be considered in order to not exceed the number of illuminance lighting design standard necessary, which consumes electricity and is a burden for future maintenance.