Occupants' response to indoor environmental quality in educational spaces: a gender-based analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore gender-sensitive approaches towards occupant response to indoor environmental quality (IEQ) parameters (thermal comfort, indoor air quality, lighting quality and acoustic comfort) in educational spaces, with the aim of understanding gender-based perception differences that may support improved comfort strategies and energy-efficient operation. Design/methodology/approach This exploratory field study was conducted at MNIT Jaipur, involving 734 participants (416 males and 318 females) belonging to different academic backgrounds. Objective environmental measurements of selected IEQ parameters were combined with subjective surveys using validated instruments and questionnaires. Statistical analysis included two-way ANOVA and odds ratio analysis to identify associations and trends in gender-based differences across naturally occurring IEQ conditions. Findings The results indicate the presence of gender-based differences in perceived satisfaction under varying IEQ conditions. Significant gender differences were found in perceptions of thermal comfort and lighting quality, while indoor air quality (IAQ) and acoustic comfort showed similar trends across genders. Males were more dissatisfied in cooler environments (<21°C SET), whereas females were more dissatisfied in warmer conditions (>25°C SET). Females also showed a higher dissatisfaction rate at lower illuminance levels (below 150 lux) and were 3.25 times more likely to report dissatisfaction. In contrast, statistical analysis showed that gender had minimal independent effects on IAQ and acoustic satisfaction; however females exhibited greater dissatisfaction under poorer air quality, and males exhibited greater dissatisfaction in higher noise levels. These findings represent observed perception trends under the measured conditions rather than definitive comfort thresholds. Research limitations/implications The study assessed a limited set of IEQ variables, with IAQ measurements restricted to PM2.5, PM10 and CO2, and without detailed acoustic frequency analysis. In addition, the analysis does not explicitly consider intersectional factors beyond gender, such as age or socio-economic background. Future research should examine the combined effects of gender, age and socio-economic background across seasons and broader pollutant profiles, while incorporating personalised adaptive comfort models to refine gender-sensitive IEQ management strategies. The study benefits male and female occupants, guides inclusive institutional planning, supports societal equity and promotes environmental sustainability through energy-efficient IEQ strategies. Originality/value This study is among the few to comprehensively assess gender-specific IEQ perceptions across four domains within the Indian climatic context. While most of the existing research focuses on thermal comfort, limited studies on gender differences across other IEQ factors were found. Although IEQ perception by gender varies significantly depending on geographical location, climatic conditions and socio-cultural differences, such influences are often underexplored in the context of developing countries like India.