Acoustics of elementary school classrooms: Correlations of varying background noise level and reverberation time to student achievement.

Lauren M. Ronsse, Lily M. Wang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

This research correlates two classroom acoustic parameters, background noise level and reverberation time, with standardized student achievement scores in elementary school classrooms in a midwestern United States public school system. Previous research in this area has shown high background noise level and reverberation time in spaces negatively impacts children's learning and performance. However, the specific levels at which detrimental effects begin to occur have not been clearly defined. The recommendation in the ANSI S12.60 Classroom Acoustics Standard for unoccupied background noise level is 35 dBA. Because many of the previous classroom acoustics studies have targeted spaces with higher background noise levels, more research is needed to determine if the unoccupied background noise level must necessarily be this low. This study surveys a wide range of elementary school classrooms to determine what (if any) unoccupied background noise level and reverberation time are necessary for optimizing student achievement.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication38th International Congress and Exposition on Noise Control Engineering 2009, INTER-NOISE 2009
Pages1875-1879
Number of pages5
StatePublished - 2009
Event38th International Congress and Exposition on Noise Control Engineering 2009, INTER-NOISE 2009 - Ottawa, ON, Canada
Duration: Aug 23 2009Aug 26 2009

Publication series

Name38th International Congress and Exposition on Noise Control Engineering 2009, INTER-NOISE 2009
Volume3

Conference

Conference38th International Congress and Exposition on Noise Control Engineering 2009, INTER-NOISE 2009
Country/TerritoryCanada
CityOttawa, ON
Period8/23/098/26/09

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Acoustics and Ultrasonics

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