Quiet classrooms help most students to focus and learn. However, some students need background music. A study by OnePoll surveying students claims there is a link between music and study habits. Students that played music while studying had a GPA above 3.2.
There are many positive effects that music has on the body and the brain. Music activates the left and right hemispheres of the brain at the same time. Thus, it maximizes learning and improves memory.
Background Music
There is background music played in various places. It is used to reduce stress to enhance well-being. Music can improve a student’s behavior. Listening to music is enjoyable and beneficial at any age. It improves the climate and learning outcomes. However, complex music is a distraction for students.
Musical genres in the classroom include smooth jazz or popular classical music. Music that includes singing is a distraction for students. Instrumental music shuts out distractions. It causes students to stay focused and stay calm.
Quiet Classrooms Play Music
There are basic rules for the selection of music in the classroom.
- Do not let students make selections. Entertainment is not the purpose of background music. Its purpose is to promote a relaxing learning environment for working or studying.
- Give students time to adjust and get comfortable with the background music.
- Use instrumental music only. Vocal music causes students to sing along, causing them to lose focus on the work.
- The volume should be low and consistent. Loud music is distracting.
An article from the American Psychological Association, “…researchers found that listening to and playing music increase the body’s production of the antibody immunoglobulin. A and natural killer cells — the cells that attack invading viruses and boost the immune system’s effectiveness. Music also reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol.” Therefore, music benefits a student’s learning.
The first day of school is exciting for most students. However, it may be scary for some students. Thus, they say, music soothes the savage soul.
A school’s goal is to promote learning. As students listen to music, they will listen, learn, and be content. A study by Petre Janata states there is a link among music, memory, and emotions. Hence, music in the classroom is beneficial.
