qualitative research

In achieving low-energy operation, occupant-controlled mixed mode buildings rely as much on the judicious use of active climate control by occupants as they do on the efficiency of the building services. The extent to which occupants choose to use natural ventilation for creating a thermally comfortable environment is informed in part by the human heat balance, and by the availability and effectiveness of adaptive comfort devices, but is also a function of social, cultural, and local context. Qualitative study is suited to exploring these factors in more detail.