Enhancing IAQ in Naturally Ventilated Irish Primary Schools: Research Design and Methodology

STUDENT PAPER. This paper outlines the research design and methodological framework of a doctoral study aimed at enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ) in naturally ventilated (NV) Irish primary school classrooms. The study commenced with a systematic review of the literature, which provided critical insights into the relationships between carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels, IAQ, ventilation adequacy, and their impacts on student health and academic performance. The review identified key knowledge gaps; no published research addresses IAQ or ventilation in Irish schools; there is limited understanding of how NV strategies affect thermal comfort, energy use, and the infiltration of outdoor pollutants; there is a lack of clear guidance on the applicability and efficacy of standard CO₂ sampling methods in NV classrooms; and the effectiveness and practicality of ventilation enhancement measures in Irish settings remain underexplored. To address these gaps, the study adopts a pragmatic, mixed-methods, deductive approach across five phases, integrating CO₂, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and thermal comfort monitoring with teacher and school management surveys, as well as spatial CO₂ mapping, to generate robust, evidence-based insights specific to Irish classrooms. Findings will inform best practice for CO₂ monitoring and support the development of practical, cost-effective ventilation guidelines to promote healthier, more sustainable learning environments.