Advice for project on collecting sensor data

Hi,

I'm completely new to the Arduino community -- so apologies is this question has been asked before.

I'm a researcher looking to collect data on community interaction in an office space. Specifically, I'm looking to install sensors that monitor

  • door closing / opening
  • lights on / off
    in an office environment and collect measurements. The sensors should relay this data to a computer server at regular intervals.

This will also serve as an nice project for me to learn how to complete Arduino projects.

I would appreciate suggestions on

  • what board / starter kit I should buy
  • what additional sensors will I need?

I would really appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks,