Problem

There is usually very little consideration of sound outside of acoustically separating learning environments. Often in schools, materials are chosen for their ease of cleaning and tend to be hard surfaces that allow sound to reverberate and amplify noise. This approach lacks the diversity of acoustical environments that support multimodal and social-emotional learning.

Solution

In the consideration of sound, be thoughtful of the learning activities happening in any environment, and use appropriate levels of acoustically absorbent materials such as baffles, flooring, and soft seating to help control noise.

Related Patterns Whole-Body Learning, Low Sensory Space, Learning Commons, Engaging the Senses