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Acoustic Environments (ABPL30078)
Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5Not available in 2026
About this subject
Overview
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This subject introduces students to the principles and practice of acoustic design within the built environment. Students will explore the principles of sound propagation, psychoacoustics, and the ways in which acoustic performance shapes the design of space. The lectures will present acoustic design theory, which students will apply to real-world indoor and outdoor design exercises, with emphasis placed on integrating acoustic performance with design intent. Students will develop skills for both analogue and digital techniques to model and simulate acoustic performance, which will be used to inform their design proposals. By the end of the subject, students will be able to analyse and interpret acoustic data, communicate performance outcomes, and propose design strategies that respond to both functional requirements and user experience.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Describe the principles of sound propagation and apply them to indoor and outdoor design scenarios.
- Apply the principles of hearing and sound perception to achieve acoustic comfort and well-being.
- Assess and evaluate acoustic performance using various modelling and simulation techniques.
- Design and justify acoustic strategies outdoor performance spaces.
- Assess and implement strategies for room acoustics and noise control.
Generic skills
- Identify, analyse, and propose solutions to problems.
- Synthesise and apply knowledge from diverse disciplines.
- Critically analyse performance, context, and constraints, to guide design.
- Communicate ideas clearly using written, visual, and oral methods, through a variety of media.
- Work independently and collaboratively, with effective planning and time management.
Last updated: 6 November 2025