Abstract:

A speech intelligibility pilot study is being conducted in primary school classrooms in Seattle. The properties of a number of unoccupied, conventional classrooms have been determined [e.g., EDT, RT60, and background noise levels without and with operating mechanical (HVAC) systems]. Intelligibility tests have been conducted in one room using four groups of children, two from grades 1--3 and the others from grades 3--5. The tests employed prerecorded AUDITEC words lists and Test of Auditory Comprehension short paragraphs and picture images. The test conditions used prerecorded tapes played through a loudspeaker placed at the front of the class. These tapes were played back at levels 15 dB(A) above background noise levels. Four playback conditions served as the major variable for these tests: with the HVAC system ``off;'' with HVAC system ``on;'' through an FM system; and a repeat of the first condition. Other test variables are student grade levels and student's location versus the loudspeaker. An additional variable arises from the ethnic diversity of the school population: 46 distinct ethnic groups are present in the student body. Data analysis is presently underway. [Work supported by University of Washington Royalty Research Fund.]