Experimental learning in acoustics: A project oriented graduate course on architectural acoustics

• Published in: The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America Vol. 134; no. 5_Supplement; p. 4015
• Main Author: Haberman, Michael R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.11.2013
• ISSN: 0001-4966; 1520-8524
• DOI: 10.1121/1.4830649

The idea of learning-by-doing, known in educational theory as experimental learning, has wide acceptance as an efficient and effective teaching method. The subject of architectural acoustics is particularly well suited for this type of instruction. This talk reports on the current graduate course on architectural acoustics in the graduate acoustics program at The University of Texas at Austin, which attempts to implement an experimental learning approach. The course focuses on in-class demonstrations, site visits, and an extended course project to supplement traditional lectures. The talk will demonstrate how this approach satisfies an experimental learning model which emphasizes a cyclic process of abstract conceptualization (lectures on acoustical theory), experimentation and experience (demonstrations, visits, and projects), and reflective observation (reporting and testing). Specific example course projects are provided that illustrate the breadth and depth of course projects resulting from this approach and perspectives are provided for avenues for improvement using this teaching method.