Kyungah Choi, a Ph.D. candidate at Color Lab recently published an article entitled “Dynamic lighting system for the learning environment: performance of elementary student” in the journal Optics Express, a top-ranked journal in the optics field. This study investigated the effects of lighting color temperatures on elementary students’ performance, namely physiological, cognitive, and behavioral aspects. With a comprehensive analysis of three different empirical studies, a total of three lighting presets were suggested for a dynamic lighting system. We believe that small changes in classroom environment, such as lighting conditions, could make a dramatic difference in supporting students’ learning.
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effects of lighting color temperatures on elementary students’ performance, and thereby propose a dynamic lighting system for a smart learning environment. Three empirical studies were conducted: First, physiological responses were measured as a potential mediator of performance. Second, cognitive and behavioral responses were observed during academic and recess activities. Lastly, the experiment was carried out in a real-life setting with prolonged exposure. With a comprehensive analysis of the three studies, three lighting presets–3500 K, 5000 K, and 6500 K–are suggested for easy, standard, and intensive activity, respectively. The study is expected to act as a good stepping stone for developing dynamic lighting systems to support students’ performance in learning environments.