If children complain about being unable to concentrate in class, one of the most likely causes is classroom temperature. Schools in which children regularly work in classroom temperatures of 28 degrees or higher may find themselves with lower than average examination results, and a problem with aggressive behaviour among their students!
For schools and colleges that want to up results and grades, and benefit from a happier learning environment, air conditioning commonly seen as a ‘must have’. However, despite these benefits, installation of air conditioning also raises questions about cost and architectural impact. The outcomes for schools that benefit from air conditioning surprises many ‘old school’ types (the ones who like to tell everyone that “In my day we weren’t spoiled with air conditioning. What are the kids of today complaining about?”).
Comprehension and concentration drops in the heat
Students that berate their teachers with complaints about the heat, hair plastered to their foreheads, and eyes dropping heavily, aren’t deliberately swinging the lead. Plenty of medical studies (and as reviewed by Professor Michael Nagel of the University of the Sunshine Coast) show that the brain begins to close down at 28 degrees.
By the time the temperature hits 30 degrees, the brain has begun to seek survival. Teachers asking their pupils to add two numbers together in such conditions are likely to be answered with blank faces and head scratching. Perhaps worse, high temperatures also affect the brain’s neurotransmitters – leading to disruptive behaviour which might otherwise be out-of-character.
Despite such medical evidence, Queensland has no upper temperature limit in its classrooms. However, this may be due to the perceived cost of installation of air conditioning: with no upper limit enforced, it is the responsibility of individual schools to foot the bill.
Cooling classes doesn’t have to be costly
The running cost of air conditioning in a school also surprises most. Ducted air conditioners allow different classrooms to be cooled to different levels from a central control panel. Timers can be used to make sure separate zones are switched off entirely when empty (and turned on manually when in use if outside the usual timetable). This means running costs are way lower than many would expect: comfort is maintained in an energy saving environment. Always conscious of costs, many of Brisbane’s businesses have chosen ducted air conditioning because of these benefits.
Architectural anonymity of schools air conditioning
Many schools, especially those with older buildings, are reticent to invest in air conditioning because of the potential architectural impact. However, modern units can be easily concealed, and silent running units produce virtually no noise pollution. From the outside, school buildings will maintain their traditional lines. Inside, students will be able to work in comfort and silence. One of Brisbane Air’s recommended manufacturers, Mitsubishi, has had its air conditioning installed in schools such as Brisbane Girls Grammar for reasons of cost, comfort, and design.
Benefit from the advantages of air conditioning in your school
The needs of every school vary. With more than three decades serving the Brisbane community with its air conditioning needs, Brisbane Airs’ technical experts are perfectly positioned to advice your school or college as to its exact air conditioning needs.
We’ll work with you to meet your aims and within your budget. You’ll be left with a more harmonious, hardworking student base. Your truancy figures will fall, tested results improve, and papers will no longer have to be chased across a classroom when an unexpected gust of wind blows through an open window.
Contact Brisbane Air today for a no obligation discussion of your requirements.