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Technical notes

2025: Online first

Experimental protocol for the evaluation of speech intelligibility in classrooms, equipped with PA systems, of the University of Bologna heritage buildings.

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3280/riaof-2025oa19516
Submitted
febbraio 27, 2025
Published
2025-09-18

Abstract

There is well-established scientific literature on acoustic parameters and indicators suitable for describing the quality of educational environments and in particular university classrooms. The acoustics of a room depends on geometric and architectural features, the arrangement of materials, and, if present, the amplification system. The latter component is rarely considered in the design phase, but it is crucial to ensure acoustic comfort in large classrooms. The paper presents the elaboration of a protocol, developed during the measurement of 17 classrooms at the University of Bologna. The purpose is the analysis of the electroacoustic systems present within the university's classrooms. The results show that only a minority of them comply with speech intelligibility requirements. The protocol turns out to be a useful tool for the evaluation of large teaching halls, with respect to the planning of electroacoustic system upgrades.

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