Music in the classroom
I play music in the class during lab activities. This helps the students relax as well as learn to work with a little bit of back ground noise which is often times the atmosphere in the medical field.
Music help set the tone of the class and the production of the day. However, I think all music should be pre-screened and controled. I dont allow students to paytheir own music for fear of playing music that might be offensive to someone. (language and content)
Unfortunately music isn't allowed in our classrooms/labs. It's a shame because I think it helps students focus and work faster because their minds and eyes aren't wondering. They are actually less distracted. So instead, my students sing, which I think is a bigger distraction.
I also play music while they are in activity in class and especially in the lab I have found they are more upbeat and focused on their work than if it was dead silent and feel like a library. I want them to enjoy their learning not dread going into a quiet room like they are in trouble. It makes for a happier atmosphere and more learning.
Yes this does help the student relax and it also lets the student know that the teacher "is not out to get them" that the teacher is "cool" and approachable and flexible.
Whenever possible, I like to play music during lab.
It sets a good mood among the students, and creates a positive atmosphere.
I also like to use different colors of markers during my lecture to highlight important points.
This is good idea.But maybe I will not incorporate music in my lab classes but in my lecture classes especially when students are assigned some seatwork.
Im usually used some type of music in a practical part of the class like a shots in pharmacology, drawing blood in phlebotomy, and the results are good. It is a new thing i think, but we can try in some time of the class and the choice of the music is important
ususal currently taught laboratory and use music during practical activities and have noticed that the class is better developed and students are more motivated. of course the type of music should be adequate as the volume.
Peggy,
the power of music has been demonstrated over & over as long as it is used in the right contexts.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I love the idea of music in the classroom. I know for myself the right music is a motivator. The thought of entering a classroom with upbeat music and calming music during a lab then upbeat music while leaving would make for happy students.
I also work in the medical field and can see where the music distraction would be good practice for the students.
I find that my students really enjoy having familar music while actually working on their faster paced practicals. Students also seem to enjoy their i pods {with 1 ear bud in and the other out} so as to hear any further instructions, I will permit this as long as the work their assigned is thoughtfully and carefully exicuted. The music seems to keep them focused and on task in a timely manner. I also permit soft or easy music as students work on homework and/or class assignments.
As a dentist, I have used music to relax my patients for many years. Now as an instructor I am glad to know it can be used to facilitate learning as well.
Stephanie,
I had not thought of this before, but you are right, in some of our fields it can be good preparation for working with this type of "noise" in the background.
Dr. Ryan Meers
