Assessment of Building Forms of Student Hostels in Tertiary Institutions in Akwaibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed building forms of student hostels in tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The research design for this study combines survey and experimental research. The target population of the study comprises all the hostel buildings in the higher institutions under study. Purposive sampling technique was used in selecting five (5) Hostels from University of Uyo (M2, W3, W4, W6 and PGW), two (2) Hostels from Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic (Block A and D) and two (2) Hostels from Akwa Ibom State University (VVLodge, and Lemon Lodge). The instrument was validated by a senior academician in this field of study. The instrument used in measurement of this research are produced by credible factories whose products are well used all over the world. Simple random sampling technique was used for the data collection. Mean score was used as a method of analysis. The study revealed that variations in building orientation, layout configuration, and construction materials significantly influence indoor temperature and thermal comfort levels. The study also revealed that hostels with compact forms and inadequate ventilation strategies exhibited higher indoor heat accumulation. The study concluded that building forms that incorporated cross-ventilation and proper spatial planning demonstrated improved thermal performance. One of the recommendations made was that trees and fins should be used as it helps in the reduction of solar gain through radiation while vents and stack effects help in the emission of used and warm air from the interior