Analyzing effects of aircraft noise on cognition and quality of life in German children near Frankfurt Airport in the NORAH-study: An overview of design and methods

摘要

In order to get more insight into the effects of transportation noise, the state-owned Environment & Community Center (ECC) of the Forum Airport and Region (FFR) commissioned the authors of this contribution to conduct a noise effects monitoring program at Frankfurt Airport. This program includes a study on noise effects on children. Based on prior findings, the current study aims to explore the effects of chronic aircraft noise exposure on reading and its precursors in primary school children who are instructed in German language. Variables known to affect reading acquisition such as teachers' methods of reading instruction, children's SES and language spoken at home are assessed via teacher and parent questionnaires. In addition to cognitive tasks, children's quality of life is assessed via standardized interviews of the children and parent questionnaires.