white noise
I play music in the classrooom to regulate their nerves. Sometimes it will be playing and they do not even notice because they start focusing better. I found information regarding "white noise learning" onn the internet.
I don't play music, but my students will often break out into song if they get the chance :)
I do, however, allow for a measure of "white noise" during the class. I teach pharmacy technicians, and there is ALWAYS noise in the pharmacy. Students need to get used to it, and to be able to concentrate around the noise, particularly during lab when they are calculating dosages. If an admissions rep brings a potential student in, I go ahead and let them talk, or offer to answer questions, even if the students are reading or working, just so they have an idea of what it will be like once they get behind that pharmacy counter.
I don't have music playing while I'm teaching, since my school is teaching audio engineering. What I do like todo is have music playing while the students are walking in. I feel it makes the students more at ease before class starts and also starts conversations that the students wouldn't normally engage in.
Hi Debra,
I can see how this can work for some students. I would rather not have any noise.
Patricia Scales
I like this idea!
It has been proven that the rhythm and notes heard in classical music reach parts of the brain and aids in learning.
Students don't usually listen to this type of music - so it is a great "double exposure"!
Hi Lynne,
White noise does not work for everyone. We have to do what we can to reach the majority and find ways to reach the minority as well.
Patricia Scales
This might work well with many students, especially those with ADHD, but for those with hearing deficits (like me) it is a major distraction. I have trouble hearing students over the sound of the projector at times, so white noise is not a good choice for my classes.
Hi Brenda,
Most instructors use soft relaxing music, and if the equipment is not available, they will use their own equipment.
Patricia Scales
What type of music seems to work best? Do you have sound equipment in your classroom or do you bring a player?
