Music in the classroom
When I took Art courses, music was always played, and at times we were allowed to let our imagination take us away. This was a great leanring experience.
I teach Massage Theory and Practicum and without music, neither the students nor I would be able to function. Music plays such a vital role and motivator when performing an art like massage. One other thing, I have 2 teenagers and it is interesting that both speak of teachers allowing and actually promoting listening to music in their classrooms.
Playing music for students to enjoy during case study review once it worked very well the students really enjoyed the relaxing sounds and were able to focus on the task at hand.
unless the subject pertains to popular songs and the words need to be heard...for example, for a music production class, i believe it is necessary to play examples of pop music as is and just plow through any distraction. IT would be hard to "break" down the songs otherwise.
Hi Beth
It's always fun to find new ways to motivate the students. I think I will give having music in the classroom a try as well.
Frank,
I agree with you on the type of music played & we need to make sure that even if it's instrumental, it's not a popular song with words as that will be distracting to students as well.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I play music so that students enjoy what they are working on, although at all times it must be the approriate music. I tend to play non 'POP' music, and remain nuetral an generes played.
Michelle,
yes, in the proper place & time & with the proper style of music, it can be very helpful.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I have found that playing music softly in math class helps the students to relax and makes math class more enjoyable for them. I know from past experience that I can work better with music in the back ground.
It is nice to be able to listen to music during the lab classes. The students feel uncomfortable if it is too quiet. I feel they relax a little and are able to work better on their projects when they see other students connect with music they like as well. It breaks any tension in the room.
Larry,
yes, we need to make sure that it would be appropriate for our various subjects, courses, lessons, etc.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Music may ok in some classes, music used in trade programs in classrooms may be a good consideration.
I also like the music being played. Music can smooth the mood and lower stress levels.
Leonardo,
yes, whenever we can use a variety of stimuli that are related to the field or to the topic the more engaged our students will be.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I've recently tried to incorporate some music, but also was unaware that the type of music mattered. I'm going to modify my choices going forward, keeping this in mind.
Not only did I not relate music to the subject I teach but I also didn't know there were limitations. I have heard other teach in our school use music and just thought they were using whatever they liked. So glad to know we need to choose carefully and that the beats matter. Great info. Thanks
I teach audio engineering and using a lot of audio examples is one of my keys to keeping students engaged.
Joseph,
I think this demonstrates a good balance as if they give you attention during lecture, they have the opportunity to listen to their music during labs.
Dr. Ryan Meers
During lab sessions, many students throw on headphones and listen to iPods, Pandora or whatever. Since they all have varied tastes in music, I have no problem with it - so long as it's after the lectures.
I agree. I used relaxing music at the beginning of my exams to try to calm the students to help them focus. A tension releaser I guess. It sure helps and students look forward to having the music.
