How do classroom activities influence noise levels and student’s listening effort?

This study investigated the acoustic environment in primary classrooms specifically for different activities. Lessons were categorized into teacher-student interaction, silent work, group work, and classroom breaks. Noise measurements were conducted in seven German primary schools (4 first grades, 3 fourth grades) with 78 students, analyzing sound pressure level (SPL), A-weighted SPL, loudness, and sharpness across these activities. In addition, children’s listening effort was assessed using a questionnaire. Results showed significant differences in A-weighted SPL across activities. Loudness was found to be the most sensitive parameter, with notable differences between activities and grades. The subjective listening effort did not vary significantly between activities, suggesting the questionnaire might not have been suitable for the age group. Results emphasized the importance of using perceptually meaningful parameters like psychoacoustic loudness for assessing classroom noise. [This research was funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program under grant agreement No. 874724 (Equal-Life)]