Education in acoustics: Fundamentals and peculiarities

Abstract

An historical background of university and technical high school education in acoustics in Russia is considered. Basic features of Soviet concepts of training in acoustics are discussed. Main advantages are deep and broad training in basic and applied disciplines, a system of the ‘‘base’’ research centers for early research activity of students under leadership of active scientists, and reporting by students of their results in science and technology at conferences and seminars. These advantages had been very positive for the Soviet planned economy. The main drawbacks are redundancy and rigidity of this education system. Transition to free market society forced the modification of basic concepts of education in acoustics: to introduce flexible education similar to European and American ones, to train students in new areas of acoustics intended to enhance the quality of life (ecology, medicine), to provide optional training in acoustics (common or individual), to meet requirements of private enterprises to education of selected students. A new approach to training of foreign students is developed: transition from special high schools for foreigners to joint education of foreigners with Russian citizens in many state educational centers. The role of the Russian Acoustical Society in exchange of education methodology between training centers in Russia is presented.