Effects of noise type, noise intensity, and illumination intensity on reading performance

This study empirically investigated the effects of noise type, noise intensity, and illumination intensity on reading performance. Three levels of noise types: factory noise, classical music, and pop with lyrics; three levels of noise intensity: 45 dBA, 65 dBA, and 85 dBA; and three levels of illumination intensity: 200 lx, 600 lx, and 1000 lx were tested. Results indicated that all three independent variables had significant effects on reading performance. Reading performance for classical music was significantly greater than that for pop with lyrics and factory noise. For noise intensity, 45 dBA resulted in the best reading performance, followed by 65 dBA, and 85 dBA. For illumination intensity, 600 lx resulted in the best reading performance, followed by 1000 lx and 200 lx. The interaction effects of noise type × illumination intensity were statistically significant. In conclusion, reading performance was best with classical music, low noise intensity, and normal illumination intensity conditions.