Cognitive task and ambient noise-based investigation on cognitive development of roadside school children

Recently, noise pollution has become a considerable environmental concern, with extended exposure linked to numerous health problems, including sleep disturbances, elevated blood pressure, psychological health, and hormone levels. This research delves into the effects of road traffic noise on the cognitive growth of school-aged children, a group particularly sensitive to environmental stressors. The study measured ambient noise levels using two sound level meters and assessed students’ performance in cognitive tasks in both prevailing and controlled quiet environments. Cognitive assessments were employed to determine the influence of noise on learning outcomes, and a survey was conducted to investigate both the direct and indirect effects of noise pollution on their health and mental well-being.

Results indicate that the observed noise levels significantly surpassed the limit of 35 dB(A) (inside the classroom) set by the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighting a critical level of noise pollution exposure among students. A comparison of student performance showed marked improvements in a controlled, quiet environment compared to the prevailing conditions. Statistical analyses, including paired t-tests, confirmed these findings in most classes. Exposure condition changes significantly decreased by 8.5 dB(A) and 13.6 dB(A) in noise levels at schools A and B, respectively. Additionally, evaluation of cognitive scores pointed to a more pronounced effect of noise pollution on female students than male students. Perception surveys showed severe exposure to noise-induced annoyance and speech intelligibility in the classroom. The study emphasizes the urgent need for effective noise reduction measures in schools to protect children’s health and enhance their cognitive development.