Lightcap 4: Light in indoor contexts Effects & implications

Light is one of our most valuable resources on this earth. It makes the world visible to us, is the major driver of the 24-hr sleep-wake cycle to which not only humans, but virtually all life on earth (fauna and flora) submits. In fact, there would be no life on earth without light. It is therefore hard to overestimate the impact light has on humans, biologically, psychologically, socially. And yet, we hardly ever think or speak about light. LIGHTCAP 4 is titled “Light in indoor contexts”. This MOOC explores the principles of lighting and its effects on humans in various indoor settings. It introduces elements of light and light sources, light distribution indoors, lighting standards, measurements and last, simulations as an important design tool for optimizing indoor lighting. The course is one in a series of four, each with a different disciplinary basis and with complementary perspectives to the domain of light for humans. The basis of this course is in building physics, lighting design and architecture. In this course you will: (1) learn why it is important to consider light in the design and evaluation of indoor environments (2) understand different light sources (daylight & electric lighting) and their properties as well as conceptual strategies for integrative daylighting and electric lighting design (3) take away a general understanding of the ways in which architecture and design play a role in creating light exposures within indoor environments, and the various factors to keep in mind when designing spaces for people (4) learn which metrics (e.g. glare, contrast, luminance) in a person's field of view need to be considered when providing for good lighting, and how to quantify all these elements (5) learn to consider how light exposure profiles are built over time and how the built environment (particularly indoor spaces) influences that (6) learn about standards and guidelines for indoor lighting on important parameters, such as, glare, discomfort and d