Acoustic equity in performance spaces: Measurement results at wheelchair accessible seating positions

This presentation is a preliminary review of research on acoustic equity in performance spaces. The focus of the research study is to evaluate measured acoustic parameters in wheelchair spaces and general patron seats with the goal to identify differences, and their relations to the architectural design. The goal is not to identify acoustic deficiencies but rather to identify trends in the built environment for equitable acoustic experiences in this new area of research. In this presentation, we will give a preview of the results while focusing on the “why” and “how” of the study. We will discuss methodologies, challenges during data collection and analysis, interpreting the ISO 3382 measurement results, and how the study evolved once the data was analyzed. This presentation will close with a discussion of future areas of research in the intersection of equity and room acoustics.