Effects Of Wall Material Type On Temperature Variation In Primary Schools In Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Providing conducive learning environments is essential for enhancing educational quality. Suboptimal indoor environments negatively influence students' performance. This study examined the impact of wall material type on temperature variation in three primary schools, using a purposive sampling technique. The indoor thermal comfort within the three primary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria, comparing Sandcrete Block (SCB) and Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) classroom constructions was studied. Classroom temperature data were collected and analysed to evaluate the thermal performance of each material. Result indicated that classrooms constructed with ICEB exhibited lower average temperatures in all the three schools than those constructed with SCB. Although the difference was not statistically significant in one of the schools investigated, the variability in thermal performance between ICEB and SCB classrooms underscores the necessity for location-specific design considerations to achieve optimal thermal comfort. It is recommended that ICEB should be tried in construction of new primary school classrooms henceforth in the warm-humid region of South East Nigeria. Addressing this issue requires concerted efforts from government agencies, educational institutions, and relevant stakeholders to improve infrastructure and provide sustainable building solutions.