RESEARCH ARTICLE A Screening Approach for Classroom Acoustics Using Web-Based Listening Tests and Subjective Ratings

Background Perception of speech is crucial in school where speech is the main mode of communication. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether a web based approach including listening tests and questionnaires could be used as a screening tool for poor classroom acoustics. The prime focus was the relation between pupils ’ comprehension of speech, the classroom acoustics and their description of the acoustic qualities of the classroom. Methodology/Principal Findings In total, 1106 pupils aged 13-19, from 59 classes and 38 schools in Sweden participated in a listening study using Hagerman’s sentences administered via Internet. Four listening con-ditions were applied: high and low background noise level and positions close and far away from the loudspeaker. The pupils described the acoustic quality of the classroom and teach-ers provided information on the physical features of the classroom using questionnaires. Conclusions/Significance In 69 % of the classes, at least three pupils described the sound environment as advers