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AUDIO: A Link Between Test Scores and Fresh Air Confirmed

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A study conducted by researchers from The University of Tulsa’s Indoor Air Program, shows maintaining adequate ventilation and thermal comfort in classrooms could have direct impacts on student learning and performance.

Appearing Aug. 28 in the scientific journal PLOS ONE, the groundbreaking research with both national and international implications is unlike any other published to date, examining the combined effect of classroom ventilation and temperature on academic performance. Findings at a large school district in the southwestern United States reveal proper classroom ventilation and temperature could raise students’ average test scores above state standards.

The study found fifth-grade students’ math scores increased along with increasing ventilation. The estimated score increase was 74 points from the lowest observed ventilation value (0.9 liters per second/person) to the recommended minimum ventilation rate (7.1 l/s per second/person). An additional 64-point increase was reported along with decreasing temperature, ranging from the highest observed temperature of 78oF (25oC) to the lowest observed 67oF (20oC). Effects of similar magnitude were observed for reading and science scores.

The test score data were based on an annual statewide assessment of learning designed to relate levels of test performance to the expectations defined in state-mandated curriculum standards. For all subject areas, the state used a scale score of 2100 points for met standard and 2400 for commended performance. Data on classroom conditions were based on measurements conducted in 140 fifth-grade classrooms of 70 schools by TU’s Indoor Air Program during the winter and spring months preceding the learning assessment.

“Adequate ventilation involves a prescribed amount of outdoor air being introduced into the classroom, with the intent to dilute and replenish stale air in the room with incoming fresh (outdoor) air,” said Richard Shaughnessy, director of TU’s Indoor Air program. “The right amount of air exchange for a classroom depends on the number of students as well as building characteristics. In addition, in highly polluted urban areas, supply air should be filtered to prevent exposure to outdoor air pollution.”