What does it cost to improve classroom "acoustic friendliness?"

Expensive renovations

Alterations Notes
Replace window air conditioners with central AC systems Very expensive to implement
Add suspended acoustical tile ceiling Usually affects lighting as well and may affect ventilation
Place fabric wall dividers between tables in the cafeteria Panels are expensive and create storage issues
Replace single-pane windows with well-sealed double-paned windows  
Construct walls in place of accordion-style dividers in open style classrooms  
Stagger door openings to classrooms (so that they are not adjacent or directly across the hall from one another)  

Medium-priced modifications

Alterations Notes
Lay an area rug that covers the majority of the hard-surfaced floor (more expensive if wall-to-wall carpet is installed).
 
Install fabric wall panels/burlap bulletin boards Can pose fire code issues. Code compliant materials could potentially fall in the high-cost category
Replace thin or hollow-core doors with solid, tight-fitting doors  
Add draperies to windows May pose fire code issues
Add landscaping to the grounds immediately outside of classroom windows Care needs to be taken to avoid creating indoor air quality problems

Low-cost solutions

Alterations Notes
Apply acoustic sealant to gaps between the walls and floors and between the walls and ceiling Probably not effective
Arrange classroom furniture (breaking up large, open spaces with bookcases, dividers, etc.)  
Install hooks so that coats/sweaters are hung on the wall across from where the teacher speaks  

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