Thermal comfort model for classrooms using occupant-centered approach

Using Grounded Theory (GT) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), this mixed-methods study explores how architecture students' and graduates' understanding of thermal comfort evolves. Focus groups (FG-1 to FG-3) across three educational levels showed that perceptions mature from a basic focus on building design to a sophisticated understanding encompassing behavioural, psychological, and climatic factors. This led to four frameworks (FW-1 to FW-4), culminating in a comprehensive Thermal Comfort Evaluation Framework (FW-4) integrating building performance, climatic conditions, and occupant responses throughout design. A novel occupant-centred model synthesises AHP-weighted priorities and GT themes, structured around building performance (type, exterior, interior), climatic conditons (temperature, humidity, air velocity), and occupant (psychological and behavioural) factors. This model reflects the interplay of controllable and uncontrollable variables impacting thermal perception and productivity, offering a robust decision-making design model.