Ways to compensate poor acoustic characteristics of classrooms

Viktor Sebestyén; Dóra Szeles; Endre Domokos

doi:10.59400/sv3449

Ways to compensate poor acoustic characteristics of classrooms

Viktor Sebestyén Sustainability Solutions Research Lab, University of Pannonia, H-8200 Veszprém, Hungary
Dóra Szeles Sustainability Solutions Research Lab, University of Pannonia, H-8200 Veszprém, Hungary
Endre Domokos Sustainability Solutions Research Lab, University of Pannonia, H-8200 Veszprém, Hungary

Article ID: 3449

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/sv3449

Keywords: Speech Transmission Index, speech intelligibility, classroom noise, quality education, compensation scenarios

Abstract

The acoustic conditions of classrooms play an important role in the performance of students, especially in the acquisition of foreign languages, but at the same time, the design of classrooms according to acoustic aspects is not a proven practice, so exploring the possibilities of subsequent compensation for classrooms in inadequate condition is an important task in order to ensure quality education. In this research, technical and organizational solutions will be comprehensively examined to improve speech intelligibility in the examined primary school and university classrooms, which will be carried out by the measurement and modelling of the Speech Transmission Index (STI). We developed seven compensation scenarios and a baseline scenario for acoustic development, which are also compared from a cost-effectiveness point of view. The insulation of the back wall, the creation of an insulating false ceiling, their combined implementation, the modernization of the windows, the effect of teacher’s position, the opened windows, and the increased volume are examined. The results of the research can be used in all institutions where acoustic compensation is needed, providing useful results not only for room acoustics specialists but also for institutional decision-makers and teachers. The measurement results show that in classrooms in quiet environments, in addition to technical solutions, which can be applied in all cases, organizational solutions can also be effective.

Published

2025-11-27

How to Cite

Sebestyén, V., Szeles, D., & Domokos, E. (2025). Ways to compensate poor acoustic characteristics of classrooms. Sound & Vibration, 59(4). https://doi.org/10.59400/sv3449

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Vol. 59 No. 4 (2025)

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Article

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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