Northcote Primary School

Problem

Problems Noise Creates in a Classroom

Noise in classrooms is a significant issue that hinders both teaching and learning. High noise levels can disrupt students’ concentration, making it difficult to focus on lessons and absorb information. Background noise from outside traffic, adjacent classrooms, or hallway activities can be particularly distracting.

Excessive noise complicates communication for teachers, forcing them to raise their voices, which can lead to vocal strain and fatigue. This environment makes it challenging to maintain classroom discipline and manage student behaviour effectively.

Additionally, noise more severely affects students with hearing impairments or learning disabilities, exacerbating their challenges and impacting their academic performance. Persistent noise can increase stress and anxiety among students and teachers, creating a less conducive learning atmosphere.

Analysis

Causes of Noise in Classrooms with Windows, Hard Floors, and High Ceilings

Classrooms with large windows, hard floors, and high ceilings often suffer from excessive noise, disrupting the learning environment. The primary causes include:

1. Sound Reflection: Hard surfaces like floors and high ceilings reflect sound, causing echoes and increasing overall noise levels.
2. External Noise: Large windows allow outside noise, such as traffic and playground activities, to infiltrate the classroom.
3. High Ceilings: These amplify sound, making even small noises seem louder and more disruptive.
4. Student Movement: Footsteps and chair scraping on hard floors create significant noise, further disturbing concentration.

Addressing these issues is essential for a productive learning environment. Installing sound-absorbing materials like acoustic panels and carpets can reduce noise levels. Additionally, using heavy curtains on windows can block external noise. Implementing these solutions will create a quieter, more focused classroom atmosphere, enhancing teaching and learning experiences.

Solution

Implementing acoustic solutions, such as sound-absorbing panels, and promoting quieter classroom practices can significantly improve the learning environment, leading to better educational outcomes and overall well-being for students and teachers.

After consultation with the teaching staff it was decided to add  both functional and decorative acoustic solutions. One of the problems in this classroom was the high ceilings and also the lack of space on the walls to add acoustic wall panels. The solution was to install Sonofonic Hanging ceiling clouds.