Sensing the invisible: Understanding the perception of indoor air quality among children in low-income families

Abstract Indoor air pollution is a leading indoor environmental risk factor, especially to individuals already at risk, such as children in low-income families. While studies have shown that occupants’ perceptions plays a significant role in improving indoor air quality (IAQ), little is known about how at-risk, low-income populations perceive and engage in IAQ. In this paper, we sought to understand how low-income families, especially children, perceive and assess IAQ. Findings show that the air quality of the indoor environment is perceived and assessed primarily through sensory responses relating to perceived comfort or discomfort, such as a sense of smell, visual cleanliness, and thermal comfort. We discuss how our findings could be applied to the future design of persuasive IAQ monitoring technologies.