13
Light influences
learning success
Learning is a dynamic process. In schools and universities, teacher-centred instruction is
increasingly giving way to modern teaching and learning methods. For these to work, the right
lighting in the classroom is crucial, because our ability to concentrate correlates with the light-
ing conditions.
Carefully planned classroom lighting increases the students' attention and well-being. Lighting
needs to be uniformly bright and flexible to ensure excellent visibility from any location despite
varying space utilisation. Modern lighting systems are capable of adjusting the brightness level
to the needs of the user. In the morning, for example, regular lessons are held. Children need a
light intensity of 300 lux to follow lessons without tiring.
The focus of good classroom lighting is still on blackboard illumination. Whether a classic
blackboard or a modern whiteboard, this area should receive 500 lux, with a high degree of
uniformity (0.7), to guarantee optimum perception and legibility even from the back of the room.
For presentations, however, it makes sense to dim the lighting system or only illuminate parts
of the room. Pre-programmed scenes can, for example, be called up via a lighting management
system and thus support changing teaching formats.
The best light source in classrooms is daylight. Sensor-controlled lighting uses incidental
natural light and harmoniously adjusts the artificial light to it for a pleasant atmosphere that
facilitates communication and promotes successful learning.
Lighting requirements (EN 12464-1)
• light intensity of at least 500 – 1000 lx for room
lighting for day classes
• controllable lighting with for different activities
and light scenes
• For classrooms used by small children
(primary school), a required illuminance of
300 lx may be used by dimming
• light intensity of at least 500 lx on blackboard/
whiteboard
• good glare control in all directions (UGR ≤ 16/19)
• ideally separately switchable lighting
(blackboard & room light)
• ideally use of daylight and presence sensors
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