Good acoustics are important in any environment, but classroom acoustics are especially critical to get right. A classroom isn’t just a physical space, it’s an environment for communication, learning and development.
Studies show that speech intelligibility, the ability to clearly hear and understand spoken words, is essential for effective learning. This is directly influenced by the acoustics of the classroom. Unfortunately, classroom acoustics are often overlooked during design or renovation, leaving students and teachers struggling against unnecessary background noise and echo.
Poor acoustics don’t just make it hard to listen, they can significantly impact learning outcomes, attention, and wellbeing.
Why Classroom Acoustics Matter
When we talk about acoustics in classrooms, we’re really talking about how well students can hear their teacher and each other. Clear communication supports comprehension, participation, and engagement.
However, excessive background noise or reverberation can mask speech and make it difficult for students to understand lessons, especially younger learners or those with additional needs.
A well-designed acoustic classroom ensures every student can hear, understand, and focus without strain.
The Impact of Poor Classroom Acoustics
1. Reduced Learning Outcomes
Bad acoustics in a classroom are usually caused by too much background noise, excessive reverberation, or both. Hard surfaces such as concrete, glass and plasterboard reflect sound, creating echoes that blur speech clarity.
When students can’t hear or understand what’s being said, their ability to learn is compromised. Considering that up to 80% of classroom learning happens through listening and speaking, poor classroom acoustics directly reduce comprehension and retention.
In simple terms, if students can’t hear the teacher, they can’t learn effectively.
2. Increased Distraction and Stress
Uncontrolled noise doesn’t just affect listening; it affects behaviour too. Constant background sound causes fatigue and frustration, reducing attention span and increasing the likelihood of distraction or disruption.
Studies have shown that noisy classrooms can heighten stress and anxiety, impacting students’ wellbeing as well as teachers’ ability to communicate clearly.
A well-designed soundproof classroom helps create a calm and focused atmosphere that benefits both learning and teaching.
3. Barriers to Inclusive Learning
Poor classroom acoustics don’t affect all students equally. Learners who rely more heavily on clear, consistent sound are the first to feel the impact, including:
- Students with hearing difficulties or impairments
- Neurodiverse learners such as those with autism, ADHD or sensory processing differences
- Children with attention or learning disorders
- Students with speech or language delays
- Non-native English speakers
For many of these students, excessive noise or long reverberation times can make speech difficult to process, increase sensory overload and heighten stress. This affects their ability to focus, participate and feel comfortable in the learning environment.
By creating a sound-inclusive classroom that supports clear communication and reduces sensory strain, schools can provide fairer, more accessible learning opportunities for every student.
4. Non-Compliance with MOE Acoustic Standards
Failing to meet Ministry of Education acoustic requirements can significantly impact how well a learning environment functions. These standards define acceptable levels of background noise, reverberation and sound insulation to support clear communication and student wellbeing.
When a classroom falls short of current MOE guidelines, it can lead to:
- Reduced speech clarity
- Lower teaching effectiveness
- Higher noise transfer between spaces
- Learning environments that aren’t fit-for-purpose
Ensuring classrooms are designed or upgraded to meet these standards is essential for delivering high-quality education and providing equitable access to learning for all students.
How to Improve Classroom Acoustics
The good news is that improving classroom acoustics doesn’t have to be complicated. With thoughtful design and the right materials, you can transform any room into a space that supports clear communication and comfort.
Here are several strategies to achieve effective classroom acoustic improvement.
1. Introduce Softer Materials
The first step to better classroom acoustics is to add soft, sound-absorbing surfaces. Carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture all help to dampen sound reflections. Even plants can contribute to a more balanced acoustic environment.
However, while these additions can make a noticeable difference, they are only part of the solution. To achieve measurable sound proofing for classrooms, purpose-built acoustic products are required.
2. Install Acoustic Wall Panels
One of the most effective ways to reduce echo and improve sound quality is through the use of acoustic wall panels.
At Acoustic Solutions Store, we recommend Autex Quietspace Panels, a leading choice for classroom acoustic solutions. These panels complement traditional wall pinboards while delivering exceptional sound absorption.
Quietspace Panels not only improve acoustics but also enhance the visual appeal of learning spaces. Their durability makes them ideal for busy classrooms, halls and lecture theatres.
3. Use Acoustic Ceiling Systems
Ceilings play a huge role in how sound travels in a room. Installing acoustic ceiling tiles or baffle systems helps manage sound reflections from above, reducing overall noise and reverberation.
Our range of acoustic ceiling systems includes Autex Horizon, Frontier, Lattice and Raft, all designed to absorb sound while adding modern, decorative elements to the space.
These systems are particularly effective in classrooms, libraries and lecture halls, where reducing echo improves clarity and speech comprehension.
4. Combine Acoustic Wall and Ceiling Products
For optimal results, combine acoustic panels with ceiling systems to create balanced sound control. Together, these acoustic classroom solutions reduce reverberation time and improve sound distribution throughout the space.
This integrated approach delivers measurable classroom acoustic improvement, making speech more intelligible and learning more effective.
5. Design for Flexible Learning Spaces
Modern classrooms are dynamic, with open spaces, breakout areas, and group zones. To manage noise across these environments, consider acoustic hanging screens, desk dividers, or portable partitions.
These elements help define zones, reduce noise transfer between groups, and provide flexible soundproofing solutions for modern educational layouts.
Professional Help for Classroom Acoustic Design
Every learning environment is different. Factors such as room size, ceiling height, materials, and student age all influence acoustics in classrooms.
That’s why it’s essential to start with an Acoustic Appraisal. At Acoustic Solutions Store, our specialists conduct on-site assessments to measure existing sound performance and identify the best acoustic solutions for classrooms.
We’ll recommend the right combination of acoustic panels, ceiling systems, and sound proofing for classroom materials to suit your budget and performance goals, all while maintaining compliance with relevant Australian Standards for learning environments.
The Benefits of an Acoustic Classroom
Creating an effective acoustic classroom provides a range of long-term benefits:
- Enhanced learning outcomes through improved speech clarity
- Reduced teacher vocal strain from less background noise
- Better concentration and behaviour among students
- Improved comfort and wellbeing for everyone in the room
- Inclusive environments for students with additional needs
Partner with Acoustic Solutions Store
At Acoustic Solutions Store, we specialise in designing and supplying classroom acoustic solutions that make a measurable difference. Our products are trusted by schools and universities across Australia for their quality, performance, and design versatility.
Whether you’re planning a new build or upgrading an existing facility, we can help you create a soundproof classroom that supports learning and communication.
Our range includes:
- Autex Quietspace Panels: high-performance wall panels for sound absorption
- Acoustic Ceiling Systems: including Horizon, Frontier, and Lattice baffles
- Decorative Acoustic Wall Tiles: for practical, durable sound control
- Acoustic Screens and Partitions: ideal for open or flexible learning spaces
For expert advice on improving classroom acoustics, contact our team today. We’ll help you design a smarter, quieter, and more engaging space for your students and teachers.
