educonference21

Ambisonics in an Art School Context
Ambisonics is a theoretically robust method for soundfield reproduction, particularly at higher orders. However, audio professionals have remained skeptical, preferring instead a discrete channel paradigm. Some of this stems from a lack of understanding of the core mathematical theory. Therefore, the researchers have taught ambisonics with an emphasis on practical implementation. In this paper, we reflect on this teaching experience and, via a further study with postgraduate students, we propose a definitive and accessible pedagogical framework for ambisonic theory. This framework also facilitates the development of mathematical intuition without resorting to complex notation. Instead, a constructivist approach to learning is deployed via small-scale projects that empower students to explore the fundamental theories of ambisonics while also creating engaging content.