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Causal-chain analysis of built-environment effects

Research Method · All research methods
Evidence · 1 claim (1 for) · 1 study (1 review), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 1 claim rests on one study

Description

The brief describes "causal chains" as a method environmental health researchers developed to evidence how building features affect people where direct causal proof is impractical. Rather than showing a maintenance practice directly causes fewer asthma attacks, "researchers can test and evidence that the practice inhibits the growth of mold. Mold, causal studies can show, impacts asthma rates." The brief uses this framework to connect indoor air quality, heat, and lighting to attendance and achievement. It applies the framework to argue that sustainable school design can improve learning and well-being.

Accounts

  • Causal chains as a research framework linking school building features to student health and performance: The brief describes "causal chains" as a method environmental health researchers developed to evidence how building features affect people where direct causal proof is impractical. Rather than showing a maintenance practice directly causes fewer asthma attacks, "researchers can test and evidence that the practice inhibits the growth of mold. Mold, causal studies can show, impacts asthma rates." The brief uses this framework to connect indoor air quality, heat, and lighting to attendance and achievement. It applies the framework to argue that sustainable school design can improve learning and well-being. (Perez (2024))

Claims

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Key Sources

  • Perez, Alyssa. (2024). How school facilities impact student health and performance: advancing equity with green infrastructure. WestEd. https://www.wested.org
Page metadata
Field Value
type research-method
id causal-chain-analysis-of-built-environment-effects
title Causal-chain analysis of built-environment effects
description The brief describes "causal chains" as a method environmental health researchers developed to evidence how building features affect people where direct causal proof is impractical.
status review
generated by process:settle-candidates on 2026-10-09
trust unverified — no one has confirmed this page's content

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