Studies have shown that high noise levels in classrooms have an impact on memory, reading and numeracy skills.
A previously published article in The Independent newspaper details the effects this can have on school going children. It highlights a study that was carried out by researchers from the UK Institute Of Education and the Institute of Acoustics which took two age groups of secondary-school students and exposed them to low and high levels of noise while being taught. Tests on their working memory, reading and numeracy skills showed that, in noisy conditions, 14 to 16 years olds performed at levels no better than 11 to 13 years olds did in the quiet noise environment.
Further articles covering this topic include an article published in the ASHRAE Journal written by Jerry G. Lilly, P.E. titled “Noise in the classroom” which details increasing noise sources and the effects it has on children.
