Abstract:

The soundscape of schools is a key element for well-being and learning quality, yet it often receives limited pedagogical attention. A previous diagnostic study conducted with sixth-grade students revealed a low level of sound awareness and a lack of systematic activities aimed at developing the competence to analyse and improve the acoustic environment in the educational materials used. In response to this need, this work presents an innovative proposal that integrates critical auditory education, immersive technologies, and collaborative analysis of the school environment to develop students’ ability to recognise acoustic disturbances and propose sustainable improvements.

This experience is part of a doctoral research project developed using a sequential mixed-methods design. In the first phase, students’ initial levels of understanding and awareness of the sound environment are assessed. Subsequently, virtual reality headsets are introduced as a training tool to explore soundscapes of contexts that cannot be visited in person. These immersive experiences allow students to strengthen attentive listening, practise analytical strategies, and compare different environments before engaging with the study of the school’s actual soundscape. Following this, students participate in a guided soundwalk, create a sound map of the school, and design improvement proposals aimed at creating healthier and more sustainable learning spaces. The intervention combines active learning, critical reflection, immersive technology, and emotional well-being, establishing itself as a pedagogically transferable model for other educational contexts.

Preliminary results show a marked improvement in the identification of acoustic disturbances and an increase in perceived environmental awareness during listening activities. This study highlights the potential of soundscape analysis—supported by immersive experiences—as a tool for pedagogical innovation and for fostering responsible citizens committed to sustainability.

Keywords:

Pedagogical innovation, soundscape, Primary education, emotional health, virtual reality.