Noise — A Stressor? Acoustic Ergonomics of Schools

Abstract

This investigation into the effects on teachers of the natural work “noise” occurring in lessons is based on an analysis of the altered pedagogical approach in everyday school life (cf. Oberdörster/Tiesler: “Modern Teaching” needs modern conditions). Is it correct to speak in general of “noise stress” or is this stress more an emotional reaction to the kind of work in which teachers are engaged? Based on recordings taken in 175 lessons this article describes how room acoustic conditions influence the teachers' measurable physiological load in relation to classroom events, teaching method and shares of speech. The data are resolved into 5-minute time slices for analysis. We analysed different conditions in one primary school (School 1) on the basis of four classrooms with a RT of > 0.5 s and four classrooms with a RT of < 0.5 s. At a second primary school (School 2) we analysed the effects of the room acoustic refurbishment (reverberation time reduced from 0.7 s to 0.4 s). Database are continuously recorded SPL, teaching activity and teacher's heart rate. Hence it is possible for the first time to consider classroom events and their effects on the teachers as a process. These physiological effects have to be confirmed by the reaction of students.