Assessment of Background Noise in a Classroom and Potential Solutions
Disciplines
Acoustics, Dynamics, and Controls
Abstract (300 words maximum)
The intent of this research is to provide an understanding of the effects that classroom acoustics and noise pollution have on students’ ability to comprehend and receive information audibly shared in a classroom. According to ANSI/ASA S12.60-2010/Part 1, the limit for A-weighted decibels (dBA) in a classroom that is less than 20000 ft3 is 35 dBA. For classrooms larger than 20000ft3, the limit is 40 dBA. To ensure the above standards are met, data will be recorded from room D-117 in Kennesaw State University’s Marietta Campus. The main source of noise for this study will be the HVAC system. The data will be obtained using a PCB Piezotronics ½" microphone. The microphone will record the instantaneous decibel level of the classroom while the HVAC system is active. Multiple data sets will be recorded at varying distances from the HVAC system. Once the data are recorded, the information will be uploaded to the BK Connect software through the Brüel & Kjær LAN-XI Module to be processed, providing detailed frequency information of the noise. Given a previous study conducted, it became known that the standards in the specific classroom are not being met; therefore, the researchers are attempting to create possible solutions to resolve this issue. Some possible solutions include the installation of HVAC silencers, reducing the speed of the fan on the HVAC system, and installing acoustical tiling.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
SPCEET - Mechanical Engineering
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Richard Ruhala
Assessment of Background Noise in a Classroom and Potential Solutions
The intent of this research is to provide an understanding of the effects that classroom acoustics and noise pollution have on students’ ability to comprehend and receive information audibly shared in a classroom. According to ANSI/ASA S12.60-2010/Part 1, the limit for A-weighted decibels (dBA) in a classroom that is less than 20000 ft3 is 35 dBA. For classrooms larger than 20000ft3, the limit is 40 dBA. To ensure the above standards are met, data will be recorded from room D-117 in Kennesaw State University’s Marietta Campus. The main source of noise for this study will be the HVAC system. The data will be obtained using a PCB Piezotronics ½" microphone. The microphone will record the instantaneous decibel level of the classroom while the HVAC system is active. Multiple data sets will be recorded at varying distances from the HVAC system. Once the data are recorded, the information will be uploaded to the BK Connect software through the Brüel & Kjær LAN-XI Module to be processed, providing detailed frequency information of the noise. Given a previous study conducted, it became known that the standards in the specific classroom are not being met; therefore, the researchers are attempting to create possible solutions to resolve this issue. Some possible solutions include the installation of HVAC silencers, reducing the speed of the fan on the HVAC system, and installing acoustical tiling.