Building Sciences

Building science is the technology-driven collection of knowledge to provide better indoor environmental quality (IEQ), energy-efficient built environments and occupant comfort, and satisfaction. This includes the study of the relationships between the building envelope, building design and construction, heating/cooling systems, insulation, mechanical ventilation, lighting, appliances, and other systems. Building science demonstrates how these various components all interact to affect the home or building’s overall performance and energy efficiency and how this information can be applied to achieve the target benefits.

Energy efficiency refers to any method where less energy is consumed to attain the same amount of useful output. Energy-efficient homes and buildings use less energy to heat, cool, and run appliances and electronics, and energy-efficient manufacturing facilities use less energy to produce goods. Like renewable energy sources, energy efficient products and processes also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Illinois Community Colleges and Building Sciences

The Illinois Community Colleges provide community education, workforce development and hands-on instruction in the field of building science. Many campuses have metered buildings that allow access to real-time data on the operations of these buildings. Some campuses act as living laboratories to investigate, analyze and utilize new approaches, equipment, and technologies.

In addition, individual colleges are:

• Improving campus energy efficiency through infrastructure retrofits, such as energy-efficient interior and exterior lighting and energy metering.
• Incorporating building science principles in a growing number of courses in programs such as construction, HVAC and electronics.
• Introducing students and new and incumbent workers to innovation building science topics such as green building, building energy analysis, and building automation systems.
• Implementing energy efficiency measures and occupant behavior change campaigns.