Music use in the classroom : comparing effects on students

ix, 68 leaves ; 29 cm. --Recent research on the brain has shown that music can affect the behaviour of students in schools. This study examines the effects of recorded music on classroom climate in a variety ofK-12 classrooms. This multiple case study focuses on five classrooms in southern Alberta. Teachers recorded observations in a journal format regarding classroom climate at the beginning of classes each morning for three weeks. During the first week no music was played. During the second two weeks, a selected recording of popular songs with positive lyrical messages was played each day. Teachers kept a daily journal, and were interviewed at the conclusion of the observation period. The observations of the teachers were compared with respect to the different divisions of students. It was found that students at all levels were happier, more co-operative, and better behaved after listening to the music before class. The music seemed to have a more dramatic affect on progressively younger students. Some of the teachers reported being in a more positive state as they began their day with music. Recommendations for possible uses of music to enhance classroom management, transitions, and learning, and for further study are cited