Date of Award
Spring 5-31-2025
Document Type
Honors Project
University Scholars Director
Dr. Joshua Tom
First Advisor/Committee Member
Dr. Lisa Goodhew
Second Advisor/Committee Member
Dr. John Lindberg
Keywords
Listening environment, reverberation time, background noise, student perception
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between classroom acoustics and perceived listening ease at Seattle Pacific University. Five classrooms were analyzed using objective measurements of reverberation time and background noise, and student and faculty perceptions were collected via surveys. While prior research and acoustic standards establish that poor acoustics hinder learning, findings revealed reverberation time and noise levels alone did not fully explain subjective listening experiences. Factors such as class size, seating arrangement, and external noise sources significantly shaped perceptions. The results underscore the importance of considering pedagogical goals and classroom usage when designing or evaluating learning environments.
Recommended Citation
Moe, Henry P., "Can You Hear A Pen Drop? A Study of Classroom Acoustics and Aural Experience" (2025). Honors Projects. 250.
https://digitalcommons.spu.edu/honorsprojects/250
Copyright Status
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/
Additional Rights Information
Copyright held by author.
Included in
Comments
A project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the University Scholars Honors Program.