Classroom Acoustics in Ghana: The Case of Seven Selected Schools in the Greater Accra Region

Abstract

Background: Classroom acoustics is essential aspect of the learning environment. A poor acoustical environment can impede a child’s ability to listen and learn. Excessive reverberation and background noise can affect the educational performance and achievement of children with hearing loss and normal hearing. It can also lead to teacher fatigue, stress and increase their chances of acquiring voice and throat problems since they have to raise their voices to be heard by the children. Aim: This study aimed at analyzing the acoustic characteristics of selected classrooms in the Greater Accra region of Ghana and to compare with the standards set by ANSI and ASHA. Methodology: Purposive sampling was used to select 7 schools while simple random sampling was used to select 28 classrooms within the schools. The acoustic condition of all selected classrooms was assessed using a calibrated Optimus Sound Level Meter to measure the background noise and signal-to-noise ratio. Reverberation time was measured using Room EQ Wizard software. The readings recorded were compared with ANSI and ASHA standards using one sample t-test at 95% confidence level. Results: The average background noise in occupied and unoccupied classroom was 65 dBA and 47.5 dBA respectively. The average Leq was 87.6 dBA whiles the average SNR was +7 dBA. The average reverberation time was 0.77 seconds. There was a statistically significant difference between these averages and the standards set by ANSI and ASHA (p < 0.05). Conclusion: All the classrooms that were assessed did not meet the recommended international standards for classroom acoustics. This will hinder effective teaching and learning and therefore requires appropriate intervention. Keywords: Reverberation time, signal-to-noise ratio, classroom, acoustic, noise