Green building acoustics: Scoring user performance factors.

Abstract

Architectural acoustics lacks specificity in the LEED for Schools (2007), green building rating system, which is based on a checklist score. Uncorrected, this edition lacks the guidance needed to meet, consistently, the stated intent: to facilitate better teacher-to-student and student-to-student communications. An alternative system—user performance based—is developed for scoring speech transmission index (STI), and tested in K–5 elementary school classrooms. K–5 teachers are surveyed and then interviewed regarding sound and noise control strategies employed in their respective classrooms, by academic subject; AV media; and teacher/student configuration. Reported outcomes are compared with STI contours. The requisite background noise level and room impulse response measurements are made using a binaural acoustic mannequin at each listening position. It is expected that STI will vary among listening positions, and by academic subject and teacher/student configuration. Accordingly, scoring for the classroom will vary. Results are discussed, and based on the findings, passive means are suggested for improving STI in the classrooms studied.