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Environmental Conditions and Their Impact on Student Concentration and Learning in University Environments: A Case Study of Education for Sustainability

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Listed:
  • Ana Bustamante-Mora

    (Departamento de Ciencias de la Computación e Informática, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile)

  • Mauricio Diéguez-Rebolledo

    (Departamento de Ciencias de la Computación e Informática, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile)

  • Milagros Zegarra

    (School of Electronic Engineering, Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa, Arequipa 04000, Peru)

  • Francisco Escobar

    (Departamento de Ciencias de la Computación e Informática, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile)

  • Gabriel Epuyao

    (Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile)

Abstract

This study explores how the environmental conditions of sustainable classrooms influence the concentration and academic performance of students in university environments, integrating the use of sustainable design strategies. Within the framework of education for sustainability, the importance of sustainable urban spaces, buildings, interiors, and green infrastructure products in communicating and promoting scientific and environmental knowledge is recognized. Using a systematic mapping methodology, the research examines how real-time monitoring of environmental variables such as air quality, humidity, temperature, CO 2 , particulate matter, and lighting, through the Internet of Things (IoT), can enhance learning. The study focuses on examining the impact of environmental factors on students’ academic performance, as well as exploring how sustainable educational spaces can promote greater awareness and favorable attitudes towards the environment. Based on an analysis of 454 articles and success stories on green educational infrastructure projects, the results reveal a significant correlation between optimal environmental conditions such as good ventilation and temperature control and increased student concentration and performance. This study also highlights the role of educational interventions, both formal and informal, that integrate sustainably built environments to reinforce occupants’ environmental engagement. The conclusion is clear: improving classroom environmental conditions, especially in terms of ventilation and temperature control, not only optimizes learning, but also acts as a powerful environmental education tool, fostering education for sustainable development and strengthening ecological attitudes among students.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana Bustamante-Mora & Mauricio Diéguez-Rebolledo & Milagros Zegarra & Francisco Escobar & Gabriel Epuyao, 2025. "Environmental Conditions and Their Impact on Student Concentration and Learning in University Environments: A Case Study of Education for Sustainability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-33, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:3:p:1071-:d:1579019
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Laurentiu Predescu & Daniel Dunea, 2021. "Performance Evaluation of Particulate Matter and Indoor Microclimate Monitors in University Classrooms under COVID-19 Restrictions," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(14), pages 1-19, July.
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