Classroom Acoustics

School is almost back in session, so let's talk about why good acoustics are so important for the learning experience.

Most schools and universities are built from highly reflective materials such as concrete, brick, and drywall — good for durability and cleanliness, but bad for acoustics. Elsewhere, the spacious common areas and open-layout classrooms found in many modern schools allow sound to travel freely without getting blocked by walls or partitions. Other factors such as overcrowded classrooms and noisy, outdated HVAC systems add to the acoustic woes.

And a classroom hasn't received a proper acoustic treatment, students are more likely to struggle with concentration and information retention.

The science backs it up: a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Built Environment found that excessive noise levels and reverb in elementary school classrooms correlated with lower math and reading scores, while a 2022 study from the Acoustical Society of America said students can miss up to 25% of information in a classroom due to poor acoustics.

Even at the preschool level, acoustics play a role: excessive reverberation and noise in a preschool classroom can negatively impact speech intelligibility, listening comprehension, and behavior.

Simply put, a student's cognitive skills, academic performance, and emotional well-being can suffer when acoustics don't make the grade. That's not even taking into consideration how bad acoustics in a classroom can impact the teacher, who may strain their voice to be heard.

Any acoustic solution will help significantly: we particularly like Fabric Acoustic Panels because they are durable and bleach-cleanable (making them perfect for high-traffic areas in a school like the hallway or cafeteria). Custom Image Acoustic Panels are a great way to add a touch of school pride to your acoustic solution, while ceiling clouds, baffles, and direct mount tiles are excellent sound absorption options for areas with limited wall space, like classrooms, gymnasiums, auditoriums, and common areas.