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Carolyn S. Turner, Ph.D Associate Dean for Research NC A&T State University School of Agriculture Description of Research Studies Dr. Turner's primary thrusts of housing research include the investigation of behavioral and technical aspects of residential energy consumption, as well as the study of adequate and affordable housing for groups with special needs. The residential energy studies have focused on human interaction with residential energy systems and other technologies, and have been completed in collaboration with the School of Engineering faculty. Energy research has been conducted in the residential energy test facility on campus, the Garrett House, as well as through surveys of residential energy practices. Studies addressing the need for adequate and affordable housing include providing an extensive census data analysis for the City of Greensboro. The data are included in government reports to justify strategies for providing for the housing needs of low and moderate income households in the city. Also, a study to count the homeless population in the city was used to document the need for transitional housing for homeless persons. An exploration of the housing and energy needs of the aging population in rural North Carolina has identified barriers to improving the housing situation of senior citizens. Manufactured housing is being studied as an affordable housing alternative in rural areas of North Carolina, and housing of individuals with physical disabilities is being studied to determine the impact of accessible design features on independence and quality of life. |