Evaluation of a Mixed Method Approach for Studying User Interaction with Novel Building Control Technology

Birgit Painter, Katherine N. Irvine, Ruth Kelly Waskett and John Mardaljevic
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Birgit Painter: Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK
Katherine N. Irvine: Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences, James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, UK
Ruth Kelly Waskett: Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK
John Mardaljevic: School of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK

Energies, 2016, vol. 9, issue 3, 1-23

Abstract: Energy-efficient building performance requires sophisticated control systems that are based on realistic occupant behaviour models. To provide robust data for the development of these models, research studies in real-world settings are needed. Yet, such studies are challenging and necessitate careful design in terms of data collection methods and procedures. This paper describes and critiques the design of a mixed methods approach for occupant behaviour research. It reviews the methodology developed for a longitudinal study in a real-world office environment where occupants’ experience with a novel facade technology (electrochromic glazing) was investigated. The methodology integrates objective physical measurements, observational data and self-reported experience data. Using data from one day of the study, this paper illustrates how the different sources can be combined in order to derive an in-depth understanding of the interplay between external daylight conditions, characteristics of the facade technology, occupant interaction with the technology and the resulting occupant experience. It was found that whilst the individual methods may be affected by practical limitations, these can be partially offset by combining physical measurements and observations with self-reported data. The paper critically evaluates the individual techniques, as well as the benefits of their integration and makes recommendations for the design of future occupant behaviour studies in real-world settings.

Keywords: real-world research; occupant behaviour; electrochromic glazing; occupant satisfaction; user experience (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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