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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Introduction to Indoor Air Quality

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology via Coursera

Overview

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Course Overview: https://youtu.be/LLVb4FOn4uU This course provides a basic knowledge of an emerging area – Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in buildings. Learners will realize the importance of maintaining proper IAQ. Characteristics associated with indoor air contaminants (IAC) are demonstrated, such as • Particulate matters (PM2.5, PM10) • Radon • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) • Asbestos • Bio-aerosols, and more Safe exposure levels, resulting health effects, measurement techniques, mitigate and control measures of these IAC are discussed. Other important areas related to IAQ such as building ventilation systems, indoor flow characteristics, sick building syndrome, and thermal comfort are also covered in this course.

Syllabus

  • Introduction to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
    • Why do we care about Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)? In the first module, basic concepts of IAQ are illustrated. Besides, Ventilation is effective in improving IAQ in general. We shall look into the ventilation concept, methodologies, and measurement techniques.
  • Radon and Indoor Aerosol
    • In this module, two major Indoor Air Contaminants - Radon and Indoor Aerosol are discussed. Their properties, sources, health impacts, mitigation and control measures are explained. Besides, we will look into another effective method to improve IAQ - Use of Air Cleaners. Some industries, such as pharmaceutical and semiconductor manufacturing, require very high cleanliness indoor environments. We will look into how professionals build cleanrooms for these industries.
  • VOCs, Ozone and Combustion Related Pollutants
    • In this module, three other major Indoor Air Contaminants that can easily be found at home and office. - (1) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), (2) Ozone and (3) Combustion related Air Contaminants (i.e., Carbon Monoxide and Nitrogen Dioxide) are introduced.
  • Bioaerosols and Asbestos
    • In the last module of course, we look into the two other major indoor air contaminants - Bioaerosols and Asbestos. Staying in a clean environment does not mean the environment is comfortable. "Thermal Comfort" is also an issue that we need to consider. We also look into "Thermal Comfort" in this module.

Taught by

Christopher Chao and Edwin Tso

Reviews

4.8 rating, based on 127 Class Central reviews

4.7 rating at Coursera based on 693 ratings

Start your review of Introduction to Indoor Air Quality

  • Anonymous
    The course was helpful and I learned much about air quality and about asbestos and the affects and dangers of asbestos and the cancer causing particles.
  • Anonymous
    La formation était bien structurée, claire et utile. Les explications étaient faciles à comprendre et les exemples étaient pertinents.
  • Anonymous
    The Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) course was clear, practical, and highly informative. It covered essential topics such as ventilation, pollutant control, filtration, and humidity management, all explained in a simple and professional way. The instructor delivered the material effectively, helping participants gain confidence in applying IAQ principles in real work environments. Overall, it was a valuable and well-organized training.
  • Anonymous
    The course "Introduction to Indoor Air Quality" was very informative and easy to understand. It explained why indoor air quality (IAQ) is important—especially since we spend most of our time indoors. The course talked about different types of indoor…
  • Volker Molthan
    3
    Clear and concise course on the subject, very valuable for all those who work in the field of indoor air quality or want to know more. Clear and understandable presentations, very pronounced even though with Chinese accentuations, and the most correct subtitle transcripts of any Coursera course I have seen so far.
  • Anonymous
    Thanks for this distinctive and well-organized course. The topic is presented in a professional way, and topics are covered adequately.
    Videos, photos, tables, and figures are very illustrative and helpful.
  • Haider Ali Javed
    Its an interesting course which introduced me to indoor air contaminants and their importance especially considering the amount of time we spend indoors. It is easy paced and holds your interest.
  • Anonymous
    The "Introduction to Indoor Air Quality" course is incredibly informative and well-structured. The instructors explain complex concepts in a very simple and clear manner, making it easy to follow even for beginners. The course content is relevant and practical, especially in today’s world where indoor air quality is more important than ever. I appreciated the real-life examples, quizzes, and detailed explanations. Highly recommend this course to anyone interested in environmental science or improving indoor living conditions!
  • Anonymous
    The "Introduction to Indoor Air Quality" course is incredibly informative and well-structured. The instructors explain complex concepts in a very simple and clear manner, making it easy to follow even for beginners. The course content is relevant and practical, especially in today’s world where indoor air quality is more important than ever. I appreciated the real-life examples, quizzes, and detailed explanations. Highly recommend this course to anyone interested in environmental science or improving indoor living conditions!
  • Anonymous
    The course was informative and useful. The professors did a great job at making us fully understand the concept of IAQ. This is a perfect course for somebody trying to learn something different from the usual stuffs we learn. Also we all might have a small knowledge in the course from our early schooling , thus making the course much more easy. Also this is a real life issue we are learning about which helps us in maintaing a proper IAQ at your home ,thereby protecting the people you care about.
  • Anonymous
    This was a good introductory course on air quality.
    It provides the foundation to make informed decisions by considering the full context — from understanding pollutants and filtration systems, to interpreting measurements and identifying effective actions that can be taken.
  • Anonymous
    This course is very useful and good.It gives us awareness about waste chemicals and how to avoid it.Reflective review on impact of IAQ on humans.


    Issues of concern include indoor chemistry, airborne infection, and the impact on performance.


    Societal trends have led to greater indoor pollutant exposure intensity.


    Responses to climate change, energy conservation and singular strategies have not been effective in alleviating the deterioration of indoor air quality.


    Holistic solutions include innovations, smart technologies and user engagement.
  • Anonymous
    clear and concise, well explained annexes artickes well choosen, a pragmatic courses with a day to day application
  • Anonymous
    Informative and practical course; enhanced my understanding of indoor air quality significantly.

    Thank you so much for the course
  • Anonymous
    The "Introduction to Indoor Air Quality" course by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology via Coursera is an excellent learning experience. It provides well-structured content with clear explanations about key topics, such as air quality management, health impacts, and mitigation strategies. The video lectures are engaging and well-prepared, while the quizzes effectively test your understanding of the material. I found the practical examples and case studies particularly useful in applying theoretical concepts. This course is highly recommended for anyone interested in environmental health or seeking a foundational understanding of indoor air quality.
  • Anonymous
    This course offers clear and well-structured content, making it easy to understand. The readings are helpful, but more real-world examples or interactive elements like quizzes could enhance the learning experience. Overall, it’s a great course, but a bit more engagement would make it even better.
  • Anonymous
    I would rate this course highly as it provides a comprehensive introduction to indoor air quality, covering essential topics like pollutants, ventilation, and health impacts. The course is well-structured, with clear explanations and practical examples that help learners understand the importance of maintaining good indoor air quality. The instructors are knowledgeable, and the resources provided are valuable for anyone interested in environmental health or indoor air quality management. Overall, it's a great course for both beginners and those looking to expand their knowledge in this field.
  • Anonymous
    I found the Introduction to Indoor Air Quality course by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology to be informative and well-structured. The course provides a solid foundation on indoor air quality, covering topics such as common pollutants, their sources, and the effects on human health
  • Anonymous
    Appreciate having learned about Radon gas and Ozone. I currently work in Retail, and am learning and concerned about VOCs in the environment during a shift. My degree is in Electronics Engineering. Thank you.
  • Anonymous
    Great course! Clear explanations, well-structured content, and practical insights on indoor air quality

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