Tips for Better Acoustics in the Classroom
Sound-absorbent products are in demand
Jonas Emanuelsson, product manager for schools and the public environment at AJ Products, says that the demand for sound-damping products is greater than ever.
"Many people will know that noise levels in schools are often felt to be too high. Talking in the classroom, the scraping sounds of chairs and desks being moved, noise from the corridor and desktops slamming all contribute to a disruptive sound environment that results in poorer concentration, which in turn makes it harder for students to learn," explains Jonas.
In addition to making learning difficult, this unwelcome noise can also cause tiredness and headaches. Therefore, it is important to keep noise levels down and create conditions where students can work quietly and effectively.
Opt for sound-absorbent tables and chairs
Interior design plays a major role in the sound environment of the classroom. Jonas recommends student desks with sound-damping tops because they reduce noise levels and create a more pleasant environment for students to work in. They are available with hard-wearing linoleum tops and sound-absorbent high-pressure laminate tops. Desks with acoustic panels under the drawers are also available.
The design of the chairs also has a major impact. "Something as simple as putting sound-absorbent felt pads under the chair legs automatically results in a quieter classroom," says Jonas. Because the felt pads slide easily, they stop the annoying scraping noises caused by moving chairs forwards or backwards.
Tips: A mobile phone storage cabinet can make classrooms quieter
Another good way of creating a peaceful environment in school is to introduce a ban on mobile phones during lessons. The simplest means of doing this is to store the students' phones securely in a mobile cabinet under the teacher's supervision.
View our mobile phone storage
Increasing concentration in the classroom
Simple changes in the classroom can often make a big difference. "One good tip is to divide up the room so that you block the sound waves. Separate off the areas that are normally noisy using storage cabinets or sound-absorbent screens," says Jonas.
In addition, it is a good idea to choose furniture upholstered with sound-absorbent fabric. A sound-damping sofa with high sides makes it easy for you to create a private area where you can work on tasks that require extra concentration. Folding exam writing screens fulfil the same function and can easily be set up to help students to stay focused. Combine these with ear protectors and you have a peaceful place to work.
Make use of the floor, walls and ceiling
Simple changes in the classroom can often make a big difference. "One good tip is to divide up the room so that you block the sound waves. Separate off the areas that are normally noisy using storage cabinets or sound-absorbent screens," says Jonas.
Acoustic panels are available in many different designs and can be mounted on both the ceiling and the walls. As well as reducing noise, wall-mounted acoustic panels can also be used as notice boards. "Acoustic panels with interesting shapes and attractive designs not only create a good sound environment, but also make the classroom a pleasant place to be and add the finishing touch to the interior decor," explains Jonas.
