Essentials Magazine Essentials Spring 2019 | Page 30

Post-Occupancy Evaluation 101
BY KRISTEN AMBROSE
What is post-occupancy evaluation and why is the process
instrumental to learning environment design? Studies suggest
that as students’ physical and social comfort increases, the
capacity for learning also increases. What are the methods to
measure student and teacher reactions to their environment?
Whether a diagnostic tool or emerging
research paradigm, the results of occupancy
studies support ongoing design research to
advance the effectiveness of all environments.
The process of evaluating the built environment systemat-
ically after a building has been occupied is termed a post-oc-
cupancy evaluation [POE]. The procedure includes surveys,
sensors and behavior mapping to form a holistic depiction of
classroom performance from a range of inputs. If the opportu-
nity exists, the comparative analysis afforded by both pre- and
post-occupancy evaluations [P/POE] allow comparison of
previous and current conditions. The surge of evidence-based
design studies and emphasis on data collection progresses
research on how classrooms serve students.
Why Evaluate?
POEs are a method to account for the quality, perfor-
mance and functionality of spaces, inform planning and
architectural programming for new buildings as well as reno-
vations/reuse projects and implement utilization trends across
space types. The range of findings includes satisfaction, health
and wellness, comfort, systems performance, programming/
planning and efficacy to achieve the institution’s or district’s
operational goals, gain valuable insight into building function,
and most importantly to offer a glimpse into student and
teacher/faculty perceptions.
Physical mobility supports diverse learning environment
configurations, Joseph F. Tuttle Middle School Renovation
30 essentials | spring 2019