Noise Impact in Italian Schools

SUMMARY

Existing Knowledge:

1. Noise in schools, especially above WHO thresholds, impacts learning and teaching quality.

2. High reverberation and background noise lead to vocal strain for teachers and reduced concentration for students.

3. Noise sources include internal chatter, equipment, and external traffic.

New Insights:

1. A protocol to measure acoustic and subjective noise impacts was tested in nine Italian schools across different contexts.

2. Students report noise-induced issues like fatigue, loss of concentration, and headaches, particularly in gymnasiums and canteens.

3. Teachers face significant vocal strain, with 67% reporting voice-related disorders, exacerbated by noise and COVID-19 measures like masks.

Putting Research into Practice:

1. Noise Mitigation Designs: Introduce sound-absorbing materials in high-noise areas like gymnasiums and canteens.

2. Teacher Health Support: Provide voice amplification tools and training for effective voice use in noisy environments.

3. Student Well-Being Initiatives: Develop noise awareness and reduction programs tailored for school settings.

Reference:
Cotana, F., Asdrubali, F., Arcangeli, G., Luzzi, S., Ricci, G., et al. (2023). Extra-auditory effects from noise exposure in schools: Results of nine Italian case studies. Acoustics, 5(1), 216–241. https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics5010013

Cite/Refer this summary: Ross, E. M. and Malar, D. B. J. (2025). Noise Impact in Italian Schools. Excellent Educator, 2(2), 4.