Effects of Noise on the Cognitive Performance of Undergraduate Students

Noise is prevalent in homes, schools, offices, public spaces, and the general industry. Defined as unwanted sound, noise is a form of pollution perceived to cause disturbance, annoyance, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disorders, and sleep disturbance. The study offers a deeper understanding of the relationship between noise and cognitive performance, specifically in the context of learning spaces at Mapua University. The non-probability sampling method, specifically purposive sampling using an online survey was conducted in the study. The data were gathered from a total of 306 respondents from Mapua University attending onsite classes. Results from Pairwise Pearson Correlations revealed that cognitive performance in terms of concentration, attention, mood, mental fatigue, and overall performance have a significant relationship with the perceived noise level. Therefore, it is crucial to manage noise levels in learning spaces to optimize students’ learning and prevent compromising their productivity and academic performance.