Classroom Lighting Impacts Learning: Research Study

When the Philips SchoolVision lighting system was installed in a German primary school, the teachers were probably dubious that there would be measurable results.

Sure, the SchoolVision system was specifically designed to improve learning environments: A touchpad allows the teacher to select between four lighting levels for the optimum atmosphere during lessons. For example, an “Energy” setting features high intensity light in a cool color tone, recommended for first thing in the morning or after lunch. A “Calm” setting has a standard intensity level and a warm color tone for use in a hyperactive classroom. “Normal” and “Focus” similarly use light to create the ideal setting for students.

But would such subtle changes in lighting make a difference? Apparently, yes! A year-long study of 166 pupils and 18 teachers in SchoolVision classrooms was conducted in Hamburg, Germany. Standard tests used to measure levels of attention and concentration found that reading speed among the students increased by 35% and hyperactivity decreased by 76%.

The findings correlate with several other studies into the effects of SchoolVision. According to my research, SchoolVision has not yet been installed in any classrooms in the United States. What do you think: Would it be a valuable addition to our school systems?

Emily Widle

Emily graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism. She enjoys scouring the news to report on the latest in the lighting industry as well as bringing valuable remodeling tips and exemplar home projects to light.

3 thoughts to “Classroom Lighting Impacts Learning: Research Study”

  1. Dear: Concerned at Philips School Vision lighting system
    We are a licensed electrical contracting firm with licenses throughout the NYC and Tri-state areas (NY, NJ, & Connecticut). Out goal is to bring School Vision lighting system to the New York City public School system, and we need more information on school Vision lighting system after watching the video on the internet.
    As a licensed electrical contractor we would like to know if this division would like to donate the lighting system to any particular school or schools of choice and we would pull the electrical permits and do the electrical installation with Electric Fixx, Inc electrical crew. We are hoping this trial based would bring this mood lighting system to the New York City school systems and increasing your product sales, and bring more work for our company as the installer.

    Thanking you in advance,

    Wayne Hamm
    Licensed Master Electrician NYC
    42 Ralph Avenue,
    Brooklyn NY 11221
    718 415 2559
    electricfixx@hotmail.com

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