Intensive method of study to understand local soundscape

The soundscape concept casts light upon the relationship between people and their sound environment including cultural and social backgrounds. From the soundscape perspective, I have carried out intensive surveys in several areas in Japan. My method of survey is characterized as (1) a detailed study in a limited area and (2) the focuses on both physical sound environment and people’s responses. According to the results of the observation at 44 points in an area of 0.06km2, it was suggested that the sonic environment should not be regarded as homogeneous even in such a small area. The results of the questionnaires suggested that social contexts in a local area should affect people’s evaluations of sound environment. For example, in the area of traditional textile industry, it was found that the factory noise was sometimes regarded as a symbol of the community as well as a source of annoyance, and that the local residents should share a distinctive social norm that the noise should be accepted. These experiences would contribute to discussing how we can connect the measurement technology with its application to environmental policies and people’s community life.

Bio:
Dr. Kazuya Minoura is Associate Professor at the Faculty of Global Policy Management and Communications, Yamanashi Prefectural University.