Thermal Comfort in Semi-Outdoor Studying Spaces: A case study of Universiti Sains Malaysia

Abstract

The paper presents an assessment of thermal conditions within semi-outdoor spaces used for the activity of studying. It aims to observe the potential of this type of spaces for human activities as a replacement or complementary to air-conditioned indoor spaces in order to reduce the energy consumption. The field work research, consisting of meteorological measurements alongside a questionnaire survey, was conducted in three studying areas at Universiti Sains Malaysia. The results demonstrate that under certain conditions, thermal comfort is achievable in studying semi-outdoor spaces. Further, the significance of objective and subjective factors in shaping users' thermal comfort perception is discussed.