Acoustic Classroom: Using a virtual reality application to promote awareness for room acoustics in learning environments

Hansen, Emil Sønderskov

4. Term

Sound and Music Computing

2024

2024-05-23

20 pages

This thesis explores the application of virtual reality (VR) to enhance acoustic awareness among school teachers, focusing on the simulation of classroom acoustics within an interactive virtual environment (VE). By integrating insights from related research on acoustic simulation and VR's educational potential, this study developed and refined a VR prototype to provide an immersive learning experience for teachers. The initial prototype allowed users to experiment with various acoustic settings and materials, and feedback from this phase was used to improve the design and functionality in a subsequent prototype. The effectiveness of the final prototype was evaluated through a series of tests conducted with school teachers. Results indicate that while the prototype succeeded in enhancing participants' understanding of acoustic principles, the small sample size and the preliminary nature of the evaluations limit the generalizability of these findings. Despite these limitations, the study demonstrates the potential of VR as a tool for education in acoustics, highlighting the need for further research with a larger participant pool. The results from a anticipated follow-up questionnaire are expected to provide additional insights into the long-term impact of the VR intervention on participants' acoustic awareness.

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