Effect of the Technology-Enhanced Sound Environment Upon Learning Performance

• In Event: 28.090 - MTCC Roundtable Session Nine
  In Roundtable Session: 28.090-13 - Teaching and Learning in Immersive Environments

Abstract

New technologies have changed our daily living and studying environments. One such change is the ever-present sound or music around us. To what extent do the varieties of sound affect our learning? This study set out to investigate this question. A total of 135 museum-goers (72 f, 63 m, ages 9 - 66) completed the Kohs block design test in four different sound environments: silence, white noise, calm music, and fast music. Results showed that most participants had the strongest performance while listening to fast music, although there were significant differences between age groups. In addition, high computer usage and sound environments were significantly correlated. We discuss the implications of our findings for learning in both formal and informal settings.

Authors

• Deborah Cockerham, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

• Lin Lin, University of North Texas

• Zhengsi Chang, The University of Texas at Dallas