RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POOR CLASSROOM ACOUSTICS AND HEARING FATIGUE AMONG NIGERIAN UNDERGRADUATES: A HYBRID REVIEW

Abstract

This hybrid scoping and systematic review investigates the relationship between poor classroom acoustics and hearing fatigue among Nigerian undergraduates. Following PRISMA-ScR and PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched PubMed, AJOL, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies up to May 2024. The scoping phase mapped noise exposure across six geopolitical zones, revealing ambient levels consistently exceeding 70 dBA due to power generators and vehicular traffic. The systematic phase synthesized evidence linking these acoustic conditions to health outcomes using the ROBINS-E tool for quality assessment. Results indicate a significant correlation between chronic noise exposure, often exceeding 85 dBA, and physical fatigue, headaches, and impaired cognitive performance. While high noise levels are objectively detrimental, perceived listening difficulty emerges as a stronger predictor of fatigue than measured decibel levels. Furthermore, the cultural normalization of noise masks long term risks of burnout. The review concludes that substandard classroom acoustics represent a critical environmental determinant of academic burnout. We recommend institutional policies prioritizing acoustic interventions and salutogenic design frameworks to mitigate cognitive strain and preserve student mental health.