Sound Field Amplification and Listening Behaviour in the Classroom

Abstract

The acoustical environment in a classroom is an important variable in the listening and psychoeducational function, both of children with hearing loss and children with normal hearing sensitivity. The present pilot study was designed to look at the listening and attending behaviour of targeted children in two primary classes before and after installation of a sound field amplification system. Evaluation across different listening categories, together with qualitative data collected from children and teachers, indicate the potential benefit and importance of such classroom equipment for listening and learning.