The blended approach for teaching architectural acoustics—a preliminary study

Abstract

Teaching architectural acoustics in tertiary education is always a challenge not only because the acoustical effects are invisible but because these effects could be difficult to experience. This paper reports a preliminary study of exploring the blended approach that combines traditional classroom deliveries with online resources for teaching this topic in a Hong Kong university. The online resources of the proposed blended approach comprise (i) measurement of binaural pulse decays at many locations inside the university's auditorium; (ii) selected examples of pulse decays at locations of considerably difference in acoustical properties (RT, Clarity, etc.); and (iii) the mix between the decays and different music for demonstrating the influences of acoustical properties. Apart from traditional classroom deliveries, the students are free to experience the online resources as many times as they want and to reinforce their understanding of acoustical effects after class. The students' evaluation was generally positive about the proposed blended approach, with over 90% of them particularly indicating that the online resources (i) helped them understand the principles of architectural acoustics; (ii) have strengthened their learning skills in approaching the topic; (iii) helped them better relate the concepts learnt in class, and (iv) stimulated their interests in the topic.