Why is the acoustical design of a classroom so important?
Students can have a qualified teacher, up to date materials, and access to the latest technology. But if the classroom is acoustically poor, and the student cannot hear what is being said, it can have the same end result as if the student were hearing impaired. Much of what goes on in the classroom may be missed because the acoustic design of the classroom interferes with learning. Is unnecessary noise making it difficult for students to understand everything the teacher and other students say? Does noise from outside the classroom distract the students, making it difficult for them to concentrate? Is the teacher constantly straining to hear and be heard, due to reverberation and activity noise generated within the classroom? Does the noise from computers, printers, lights, air conditioning, heating units, and other classroom equipment force the teacher to work harder and speak more loudly in order to be heard? What does research show about noise, listening, and learning? We all know h
