How to use the Classroom Noise Monitor
- Open this page on the classroom computer and click Allow microphone and start.
- Adjust the quiet target for the activity, for example about 45–50 dB for silent work and 60–65 dB for group work (depends on your room).
- Click Projector full screen and choose the traffic light or faces theme; turn on the alert sound if you want one.
- After class, review quiet time, the longest quiet streak and times over target to reward the class.
Why visual noise feedback works
Turning volume into a colour lets students see how loud they are, with fewer interruptions than repeated reminders. Research and WHO guidance show that high classroom background noise hurts listening and reading comprehension; the WHO Guidelines for Community Noise recommend classroom background noise of no more than 35 dB(A) during lessons (measured in the empty room).
Setting the quiet target
Readings depend on the computer microphone and its position. Watch the reading for a few seconds while the class is quiet, then add 5–10 dB as your target. Below the target minus 6 dB is green, within 6 dB of the target is yellow, and above the target is red.
Children’s privacy and classroom use
The tool only computes loudness. It does not record, recognise speech or upload anything, and students need no accounts. The alert sound is off by default to avoid constant alarms; pair it with class rules and rewards rather than using it to punish.
Frequently asked questions
Does it record students?
No. Classroom mode reads the level only. It stores no audio, recognises no speech and uploads nothing.
What quiet target should I use?
There is no universal value; it depends on the microphone and room. Measure the class while quiet and add 5–10 dB. Readings are uncalibrated and only meant for comparisons within your classroom.
Can I use it on a tablet or phone?
Yes, but keep the screen awake and the page in front. For projection, a classroom PC or a laptop connected to the display works best.
Will the alert scare students?
The alert is off by default. When enabled it plays one soft tone only after the level stays above target, with a cool-down to prevent repeated alarms.
Does it keep working when I switch to slides?
Browsers may slow background tabs. Put this page on a second screen or split screen so it stays in front.