Consider building orientation

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 58 views

Introduction

Thermal conditions in the classroom play a crucial role in the comfort of student learning. A comfortable learning environment is essential for students to focus and absorb knowledge effectively. One of the factors that influence the thermal condition of a classroom is the orientation of the building to the sun. This study aims to analyze the impact of building orientation on temperature and humidity in two identical classrooms, but with different orientations, namely classrooms facing north and classrooms facing west in SDN 066049 Medan Helvetia.

Methodology

In this study, the authors took measurements of temperature and humidity in and outside the classroom for six consecutive days during study hours, from 07.30 to 12.05 WIB. Measurements were carried out simultaneously to get accurate data. The measurement results were then analyzed by comparing temperature and humidity data in both classrooms. The authors used a data logger to record temperature and humidity levels every 10 minutes, providing a comprehensive dataset for analysis.

Results

The results of the study show that western-oriented classrooms have higher temperatures compared to northern-oriented classrooms. This can be explained by the influence of more intensive sunlight during the day on the west side. When sunlight hits the building, the heat absorbed by the walls and roofs of the building causes the temperature in the room to increase. Conversely, northern-oriented classrooms tend to get less sunlight, so that the temperature inside remains lower.

Discussion

The findings of this study highlight the importance of considering building orientation in classroom planning. By choosing the right orientation, we can create a learning environment that is more comfortable for students, which in turn can increase their concentration and learning outcomes. Considering the climate conditions in Indonesia that tend to be hot, building orientation is one aspect that cannot be ignored in the design of classrooms.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights for the school and building planning to consider thermal aspects in designing classrooms. It is hoped that this finding can be a reference in the development of better education, by creating an optimal learning environment for all students. The results of this study can be used as a guideline for architects and builders to design classrooms that are more comfortable and conducive to learning.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Consider building orientation: When designing classrooms, consider the orientation of the building to the sun. Classrooms facing north tend to be cooler than those facing west.
Use shading devices: Use shading devices such as awnings or overhangs to reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters the classroom.
Improve ventilation: Improve ventilation in the classroom by using fans or air conditioning to reduce the temperature.
Use thermal mass: Use thermal mass materials such as concrete or brick to absorb and release heat, reducing the temperature in the classroom.

Limitations

This study has several limitations that should be noted. Firstly, the study was conducted in a specific location, SDN 066049 Medan Helvetia, and the results may not be generalizable to other locations. Secondly, the study only measured temperature and humidity levels, and did not consider other factors that may influence the thermal condition of the classroom, such as air quality or noise levels.

Future Research Directions

Future research directions include:

Conducting a larger-scale study: Conducting a larger-scale study to confirm the findings of this study and to explore the impact of building orientation on other factors such as air quality and noise levels.
Investigating the impact of other factors: Investigating the impact of other factors such as window size, window orientation, and insulation on the thermal condition of the classroom.
Developing a design guideline: Developing a design guideline for architects and builders to design classrooms that are more comfortable and conducive to learning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering building orientation in classroom planning. By choosing the right orientation, we can create a learning environment that is more comfortable for students, which in turn can increase their concentration and learning outcomes. The results of this study can be used as a guideline for architects and builders to design classrooms that are more comfortable and conducive to learning.

Q: What is the significance of building orientation in classroom design?

A: Building orientation is crucial in classroom design as it affects the thermal condition of the classroom. A well-designed building orientation can create a comfortable learning environment, which is essential for students to focus and absorb knowledge effectively.

Q: How does building orientation affect the temperature in a classroom?

A: Building orientation affects the temperature in a classroom by influencing the amount of direct sunlight that enters the classroom. Classrooms facing west tend to receive more direct sunlight, resulting in higher temperatures, while classrooms facing north receive less direct sunlight, resulting in lower temperatures.

Q: What are some strategies to reduce the temperature in a classroom?

A: Some strategies to reduce the temperature in a classroom include:

Using shading devices: Use shading devices such as awnings or overhangs to reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters the classroom.
Improving ventilation: Improve ventilation in the classroom by using fans or air conditioning to reduce the temperature.
Using thermal mass: Use thermal mass materials such as concrete or brick to absorb and release heat, reducing the temperature in the classroom.

Q: How can building orientation be used to improve the learning environment?

A: Building orientation can be used to improve the learning environment by creating a comfortable and conducive space for students to learn. By choosing the right orientation, we can reduce the temperature in the classroom, improve ventilation, and create a more comfortable learning environment.

Q: What are some limitations of this study?

A: Some limitations of this study include:

Limited location: The study was conducted in a specific location, SDN 066049 Medan Helvetia, and the results may not be generalizable to other locations.
Limited factors: The study only measured temperature and humidity levels, and did not consider other factors that may influence the thermal condition of the classroom, such as air quality or noise levels.

Q: What are some future research directions?

A: Some future research directions include:

Conducting a larger-scale study: Conducting a larger-scale study to confirm the findings of this study and to explore the impact of building orientation on other factors such as air quality and noise levels.
Investigating the impact of other factors: Investigating the impact of other factors such as window size, window orientation, and insulation on the thermal condition of the classroom.
Developing a design guideline: Developing a design guideline for architects and builders to design classrooms that are more comfortable and conducive to learning.

Q: What are some practical applications of this study?

A: Some practical applications of this study include:

Designing classrooms: Designing classrooms that are more comfortable and conducive to learning by considering the orientation of the building to the sun.
Improving ventilation: Improving ventilation in the classroom by using fans or air conditioning to reduce the temperature.
Using thermal mass: Using thermal mass materials such as concrete or brick to absorb and release heat, reducing the temperature in the classroom.