A Research Protocol for a Field Study of Behavior, Comfort, and Energy Consumption in Student Residence Halls

A research protocol was developed for a field study of occupant behavior, thermal comfort, and energy consumption in two residence halls, one old and one new, at the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon. Three methodologies were used in the investigation: an online occupant survey, data logging of thermal conditions within the buildings, and the collection of electrical utility data. Data collection over a three-week period indicates that the procedure outlined can be effectively utilized to investigate residence hall living environments with little disruption to student and staff routines.