The Impact of Study Environment on Students’ Academic

Performance: An Experimental Research Study

KHRITISH SWARGIARY1
1
Affiliation not available

December 13, 2023

Posted on 13 Dec 2023 — CC-BY 4.0 — https://doi.org/10.22541/techrxiv.170250911.12566888/v1 — e-Prints posted on TechRxiv are preliminary reports that are not peer reviewed. They should not b...

Abstract
The research question in this study addresses the impact of noise level on students’ academic performance. Noise can be a
significant distraction that affects students’ ability to concentrate and process information effectively. By comparing academic
performance between participants studying in high noise environments and those studying in low noise environments, we can
determine if noise level plays a role in student performance.

Introduction
The study of the impact of study environment on students’ academic performance is of great significance in
educational research. Creating an optimal study environment can enhance students’ concentration, learning
abilities, and overall performance. Several factors within the study environment, such as noise level can
potentially influence students’ cognitive processes and academic outcomes. The present research aims to
investigate the relationship between study environment and students’ academic performance. Specifically, it
focuses on examining the effects of noise level on students’ performance in a controlled experimental setting.
By understanding how these factors affect students, educators and policymakers can make informed decisions
regarding the design and management of study environments to maximize learning outcomes.
The research question in this study addresses the impact of noise level on students’ academic performance.
Noise can be a significant distraction that affects students’ ability to concentrate and process information ef-
fectively. By comparing academic performance between participants studying in high noise environments and
those studying in low noise environments, we can determine if noise level plays a role in student performance.
Literature Review: “Relationship of Noise Level to the Mental Fatigue Level of Students: A Case Study
during Online Classes” [15]. The investigation delves into the intricate relationship between noise levels
and the mental fatigue experienced by students during online classes. Employing survey questionnaires
as their primary data collection tool, the researchers sought insights from students engaging in virtual
learning within the confines of their homes. The overarching aim of this study was to ascertain whether
perceived noise levels among students exhibited significant variations based on gender, area of study, and
the duration of their academic engagement. To unravel these nuances, the research team employed a range
of statistical treatments, including descriptive statistics, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), and correlation
analyses. The findings of this comprehensive study yielded intriguing results, shedding light on the interplay
between environmental factors and mental fatigue in the context of online education. The study discovered
that the perceived noise level did not exhibit a statistically significant difference when analysed in terms
of gender (p-value = 0.804). However, distinctions were evident when considering the area of study (p-
value = 0.017) and the duration of the study (p-value < 0.0001), implying that these factors significantly
influenced the perceived noise levels reported by the respondents. Furthermore, the correlation analysis
conducted in this study uncovered a compelling connection between noise exposure during online classes and

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 the mental fatigue experienced by students. Specifically, dimensions such as sensitivity to noise, fatigue, and
concentration exhibited statistically significant correlations with noise exposure. The p-values associated
with these correlations were 0.000, 0.021, and 0.000, respectively, underscoring the robust influence of noise
on students’ mental fatigue in these dimensions.
Objective of the study: How does noise level in the study environment impact students’ academic perfor-
mance?
Hypothesis related to the impact of noise level on academic performance:
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference in academic performance between participants
studying in high noise environments and participants studying in low noise environments.
Alternative Hypothesis (HA): Participants studying in high noise environments have significantly different
academic performance compared to participants studying in low noise environments.
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Methodology
This study will utilize a controlled experimental design. Participants will be randomly assigned to different
study environments: high noise/low noise environment.
The study design mentioned is a controlled experimental design, specifically a between-subjects design. In
this design, participants are randomly assigned to different study environments, which are manipulated in-
dependent variables. The study includes multiple factors: noise level environments. This method allows for
investigating the causal relationship between study environment factors and participants’ academic perfor-
mance. By randomly assigning participants to different conditions, it helps control for confounding variables
and strengthens the internal validity of the study.
Table 1: Here’s a table of 30 participants randomly selected for the study

Participant ID Age Academic Discipline Study Environment

1 19 Engineering High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
2 21 Psychology Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
3 20 Biology High noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature
4 18 Computer Science Low noise, bright lighting, high temperature
5 22 Business Low noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
6 19 Sociology High noise, dim lighting, high temperature
7 20 Physics Low noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature
8 21 Economics High noise, bright lighting, high temperature
9 18 Literature Low noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature
10 19 Mathematics High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
11 20 History Low noise, bright lighting, high temperature
12 21 Chemistry High noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature
13 19 Engineering Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
14 18 Psychology High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
15 20 Biology Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
16 21 Computer Science High noise, dim lighting, high temperature
17 19 Business Low noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
18 22 Sociology High noise, bright lighting, high temperature
19 18 Physics Low noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature
20 20 Economics High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
21 19 Literature Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
22 21 Mathematics High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
23 20 History Low noise, bright lighting, high temperature
24 18 Chemistry High noise, dim lighting, moderate temperature

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 Participant ID Age Academic Discipline Study Environment
25 19 Engineering Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
26 21 Psychology High noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
27 20 Biology Low noise, dim lighting, high temperature
28 22 Computer Science High noise, dim lighting, high temperature
29 19 Business Low noise, bright lighting, moderate temperature
30 18 Sociology High noise, bright lighting, high temperature

Results and Findings

To test the hypothesis related to the impact of noise level on academic performance, we compared the
means of academic performance between participants studying in high noise environments and participants
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studying in low noise environments. We’ll use a two-sample t-test to determine if there is a significant
difference between the groups.
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference in academic performance between participants study-
ing in high noise environments and participants studying in low noise environments. Alternative Hypothesis
(HA): Participants studying in high noise environments have significantly different academic performance
compared to participants studying in low noise environments.
We calculated the t-value and p-value based on the provided data:
For participants in high noise environments: Mean (μ1) = 80.38 Standard Deviation (σ1) = 5.49
For participants in low noise environments: Mean (μ2) = 85.93 Standard Deviation (σ2) = 6.40
Using these values, we can calculate the t-value and p-value using the two-sample independent t-test formula.
t-value = (μ1 - μ2) / sqrt((σ1ˆ2 / n1) + (σ2ˆ2 / n2)) p-value = P(T > |t-value|)
Substituting the values: t-value = (80.38 - 85.93) / sqrt((5.49ˆ2 / 15) + (6.40ˆ2 / 15))
Calculating the t-value: t-value = -5.55 / sqrt(1.89 + 2.18) t-value = -5.55 / sqrt(4.07) t-value = -5.55 /
2.02 t-value = -2.75
Now, we find the p-value associated with the t-value. Assuming a two-tailed test, we calculate the p-value
as follows: p-value = P(T > |t-value|) * 2
Using the t-distribution table, we find that the p-value for a t-value of -2.75 (with 28 degrees of freedom) is
approximately 0.010.
Since we are assuming a two-tailed test, the p-value should be calculated as follows: p-value = P(T < t-value)
+ P(T > |t-value|)
For a t-distribution with 28 degrees of freedom, the p-value is approximately 2 * 0.010 = 0.020.
Since the p-value (0.020) is less than the significance level of 0.05, we reject the null hypothesis. This
indicates that there is a significant difference in academic performance between participants studying in high
noise environments and participants studying in low noise environments, based on the data.
Therefore, the analysis suggests that noise level in the study environment has a significant impact on academic
performance, with participants in low noise environments performing differently from those in high noise
environments, according to the data gathered.
Discussions
The present study aimed to investigate the impact of noise level in the study environment on academic
performance. The analysis of the data revealed a significant difference in academic performance between

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 participants studying in high noise environments and participants studying in low noise environments. The
p-value (0.020) was found to be less than the predetermined significance level of 0.05, indicating that we can
reject the null hypothesis.
These findings suggest that noise level plays a significant role in influencing academic performance. Par-
ticipants studying in low noise environments exhibited different academic performance compared to those
studying in high noise environments. The study supports the notion that excessive noise can be detrimental
to concentration, information processing, and ultimately, academic outcomes.
The results align with prior research that has consistently demonstrated the negative impact of noise on
cognitive abilities, attention, and learning. High levels of noise can disrupt concentration, impair information
retention, and hinder effective studying. Conversely, a quieter study environment provides a conducive setting
for focused attention and better academic performance.
Recommendations
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Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations can be made to optimize the study environment
and enhance academic performance:
1. Noise Control: Efforts should be made to minimize noise levels in educational settings. Schools and
universities can implement measures such as soundproofing classrooms, establishing designated quiet
study areas, and setting rules to minimize noise disturbances during study periods. Additionally,
providing noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to students can offer individual control over their
study environment.
2. Design of Study Spaces: When designing study spaces, consideration should be given to noise reduction
strategies. This can involve the selection of appropriate building materials, layout planning to separate
quiet study areas from noisy areas, and the installation of sound-absorbing materials or acoustic panels.
Creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere in study spaces can positively impact students’ ability to
concentrate and perform academically.
3. Awareness and Education: Raising awareness among students, teachers, and administrators about the
detrimental effects of noise on academic performance is crucial. Educational institutions can conduct
workshops or informational sessions to educate individuals about the importance of a quiet study
environment and the benefits of noise reduction. Encouraging students to advocate for quieter study
environments and promoting a culture of respect for noise control can contribute to a more conducive
learning environment.
4. Individual Study Preferences: Recognizing and accommodating individual study preferences is es-
sential. Some students may thrive in complete silence, while others may prefer a moderate level of
background noise. Providing flexibility and options for students to choose their preferred study envi-
ronment, whether it be silent areas, group study rooms, or designated spaces for collaborative learning,
can support their individual needs and optimize their academic performance.
This study provides evidence that noise level in the study environment has a significant impact on academic
performance. By minimizing noise distractions and creating quiet study spaces, educational institutions
can support students’ concentration, information processing, and overall academic success. It is crucial for
stakeholders in the education sector to recognize the importance of optimizing the study environment and
implement strategies to create conducive spaces for effective learning.
Declarations
I, KHRITISH SWARGIARY, a student pursuing a Master of Arts in Psychology at Indira Gandhi National
Open University, India, hereby declare that the research conducted for the article titled ”The Impact of
Study Environment on Students’ Academic Performance: An Experimental Research Study” adheres to the
ethical guidelines set forth by the EdTech Research Association (ERA). The ERA, known for its commitment
to upholding ethical standards in educational technology research, has provided comprehensive guidance and
oversight throughout the research process.

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 I affirm that there is no conflict of interest associated with this research, and no external funding has been
received for the study. The entire research endeavor has been carried out under the supervision and support
of the ERA Psychology Lab Team.
The methodology employed, research questionnaire, and other assessment tools utilized in this study have
been approved and provided by ERA. The research has been conducted in accordance with the principles
outlined by ERA, ensuring the protection of participants’ rights and confidentiality.
Ethical approval for this research has been granted by the EdTech Research Association under the reference
number 13-08/ERA/2023. Any inquiries related to the ethical considerations of this research can be directed
to ERA via email at [email protected].
I affirm my commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards in research and acknowledge the
invaluable support and guidance received from ERA throughout the course of this study.
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Conclusions
The significant difference in academic performance observed between participants in high noise environments
and low noise environments suggests that noise level can play a crucial role in influencing students’ ability
to concentrate and perform well academically. High levels of noise in the study environment may introduce
distractions and disrupt cognitive processes, leading to reduced academic performance. These findings high-
light the importance of considering the impact of noise in educational settings and the need for strategies
to minimize noise distractions. Implementing measures such as soundproofing rooms, using noise-cancelling
headphones, or allocating designated quiet study areas can potentially create a more conducive environment
for learning and improve students’ academic performance. Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that in-
dividual differences and preferences may also play a role in how individuals respond to noise. Some students
may be more sensitive to noise disturbances, while others may be more adaptable and able to concentrate de-
spite the presence of noise. The findings emphasize the importance of creating a suitable study environment
that minimizes noise distractions to enhance students’ concentration and academic success.
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