Noise level feedback in the classroom - Live sound level

In the classroom, decibel levels can gradually increase without us realizing it, until they begin to affect the atmosphere: more difficult communication, nervous irritation, reduced concentration, etc., especially in kindergarten and primary school classes.

When it comes to a perception like noise, not everyone has the same sensitivity or tolerance; what's more, our tolerance to noise can change according to circumstances, exposure and environment. Providing a point of comparison and reference by means of an objective measurement, such as temperature, enables everyone to situate themselves and determine tolerable noise thresholds for themselves and for a group.

When feedback is provided, people tend to adjust. The principle is nothing new, but it's still effective.

Here are a few applications that provide continuous, objective feedback on noise levels.

• Bouncing balls is a great alternative to a screensaver when a whiteboard or classroom computer is not in use. You can set sensitivity, theme and an alert when noise exceeds a certain level.
  
  
• ZNC - Zero Noise Classroom - Very simple, ZNC lets you configure how long the noise limit you set may be exceeded before the alarm is triggered.
  
  
• ClassroomScreen - Offers several services, including Sound Level, based on the same principle.
  
  
• Classroom Noise'O'Meter in Scratch - For those familiar with Scratch, the language of programming, this app demonstrates the potential usefulness of programming.
  
  
• Phone sound level meters - On Google Play - On Apple Store
  Dozens of sound level meters / decibel meters are available for cell phones. Leaving an old phone as a monitor on a desk offers the opportunity to objectively demonstrate the noise level and refer to it as needed.