Music in the classroom
I find that music can be quite a mood setter and motivator. It can often be quite a distraction, if not managed properly. Playing music during clean up, for instance, is a fantastic way of keeping students on point.
I have used music in my classroom since I began teaching. I have used it in poetry classes, composition classes, and in literature classes.
It has worked well for me.
I have never tried using music in the classroom either, but I think I will try it. I like the idea.
I teach a production class in a culinary school and while I do not have music playing during lectures and demos when it comes to actual production cooking music is introduced to the class using an on-line radio station to avoid the copyright laws. It keeps the students in the culianry world focused and calm most of the time.
Laura,
I too am a believer that music can be used quite effectively in the classroom. As stated in ED107 there are powerful emotions and memories that can be triggered when old songs are played. This same emotion can be used to help with memory if the same songs are played with a praticular set of facts that must be memorized. I have used this technique many times while studying for safety and sanitation tests and quizzes.
I start out with group discussions of a chapter and play a certain set of songs (usually very soft pop-rock). Then at the end of the day review I play the same set at a very low volume. Then I review one more time the information with the subliminal music.
Then I play the music before class on the day of the test. It seems to work as I have been getting much better aggregate test scores on the subject matter. One caveat however, is the music must be enjoyable to all in order for them to hear it at least three times!
I often times play music (if appropriate) during classroom lab time. I find this to help the students stay focused on what can sometimes be rather boring production- such as gum paste flowers.
I use music also to help create a fun and enjoyable learning enviorment in the classroom while working on paper lab's.
I agree, playing music during a non-educational times, such as the cleaning at the end of a lab course, both facilitates positive peer interactions and attitudes while increasing productivity.
Great Rhonda!
I can completely understand how music in lit classes is very positive. Just think about how many people relax with a good book and soft, soothing music. What music do you use?
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Great Rebecca!
I have had the same results. Our lives as so full of stimuli coming from all directions so if we can have a moment to take a deep breath, is helps us be more successful.
Good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
I use music as an enhancement tool for literature classes. I have also found music to be a integral part of the analysis process in English classes.
I tried this yesterday in the classroom. I have had several disipline issues with this class and decided to play quiet music a students arrived and on the break. All but one of the students calmed and began listining to the lecture. I will continune to use this idea in my class this term.
In the kitchen classroom this works really well
Due to copyrite laws our company will not alow us to play music in the room unless it comes in over the radio.
I have not tried using music in the class room. I like the idea of playing somehting quiet as the students enter the classroom. I'm afraid I will forget my lecture if I play music while I'm speaking.
I am very interested in repeating the experiment of test gradeswith music and test grades without music.
I agree kathleen. Our company also does not allow music in our kitchens. But I agree that it is a great motivational tool that also speeds up and intensifies the daily cleanup routine that the students usually do not look forward to. I find an electic mix of instrumental music works great.
Hi Randall!
I've had the same challenge. But what I finally realized that setting up for students is much more pleasant with music and puts me in a better frame of mind for students' arrival. Then the student has a few minutes to enjoy and relax as well.
I haven't used music any other way than at the beginning of the class. However, I do believe that music has a place at other times.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Wonderful!
I can only imagine what a Portugese, Spainish or Italian cuisine class would be like with music playing. One could feel the culture; therefore, experiencing the music just adds another deminision.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Yes, Dale there are some legal restrictions. I have used my cell phone and computer for accessing music sites. I'm clear on the laws, but I believe this would be OK. If you have a moment, perhaps you would research the law and provide some feedback.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Hi Thomas!
I think that music can be used in most classroom situations; however, instructors should be sensitive to student preferences and reactions to the music. It's about making a cultural change - even for instructors.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
