University of Adelaide – Photographer: Aaron Citti
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communication, which is why controlling noise levels, minimising reverberation and ensuring clarity of speech in any learning space from the classroom to the lecture hall is key. It can influence student engagement, therefore enhancing the learning experience and academic success, as well as contributing to the overall wellbeing of those in education. On the flip side, noisy learning spaces have the capacity to hinder classroom control, lower pupils’ academic performance, particularly disadvantaged children with special educational needs, as well as damage teachers’ health. The World Health Organisation states that noise in classrooms should not exceed 35 decibels but a study of UK primary schools discovered that the average level was nearly twice that at 65 decibels. This only increases through what’s known as the ‘Lombard effect’ which occurs as a result of long reverberation times, causing speech to become unintelligible. Speakers therefore raise their voices so they can be heard and this in turn exacerbates the situation and further increases noise levels. That’s why a good acoustic environment will have shorter
reverberation times, which can be achieved through incorporating a variety of sound-absorbing materials from carpets to ceiling acoustics, acoustic tiles and wall panels. In addition, partitions can be an essential part of the acoustics toolkit as they can disrupt sound patterns, which is particularly useful in flexible spaces. As well as noise from conversations between students and
interactions with teaching staff, acoustic design in the education sector needs to consider sounds from HVAC installations,
adjacent rooms and corridors and even nearby road traffic or flight paths. As educational institutions continue to innovate and adapt to new pedagogical models, the role of acoustic comfort in design cannot be underestimated. After all, it’s not just about reducing noise and eliminating distractions and disruptions but creating spaces where education can thrive.
CIT Woden– Photographer: Adam McGrath
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