Music in the classroom
I find that music can be quite a mood setter and motivator. It can often be quite a distraction, if not managed properly. Playing music during clean up, for instance, is a fantastic way of keeping students on point.
I teach core technical classes. I have tried using music in class, but find that some of my students feel that learning should not involve not technical things like music. However, after going through this section I am going to try and purchace some music specifically designed for learning environments.
Our company will not allow us to play music except at clean up time. I didn't realize that copyrighted music shouldn't be played. Wow, I've done it for years.
I recently (Holiday season) introduced light holiday music during my lab. I teach Patient Care Techs and many will be in clinics/doctors offices where there is often light music being played in the background. It did wonders for the class morale!
One of the problems that I encounter is remembering to play it because I am setting up for demonstration or lecture. Then at the end of the class I am getting ready for the next class coming in. It is something that I do not put high the priority list. But after taking this module, I starting thinking about how I could incorporate music into my classroom.
I wish we could incorporate music. Our company will not allow it and I think it's simply another level of getting the point across. i used to teach a culinary arts class called American Regional Cuisine and I would play regionally specific music to drive the point home. There's just something about listening to zydeco while making gumbo that makes the food come out better!
You got that right Kathleen. I used to play music from all over the world in my International Cuisine classes. The students loved it!
Hi Thomas!
I think that music can be used in most classroom situations; however, instructors should be sensitive to student preferences and reactions to the music. It's about making a cultural change - even for instructors.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Yes, Dale there are some legal restrictions. I have used my cell phone and computer for accessing music sites. I'm clear on the laws, but I believe this would be OK. If you have a moment, perhaps you would research the law and provide some feedback.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Wonderful!
I can only imagine what a Portugese, Spainish or Italian cuisine class would be like with music playing. One could feel the culture; therefore, experiencing the music just adds another deminision.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Hi Randall!
I've had the same challenge. But what I finally realized that setting up for students is much more pleasant with music and puts me in a better frame of mind for students' arrival. Then the student has a few minutes to enjoy and relax as well.
I haven't used music any other way than at the beginning of the class. However, I do believe that music has a place at other times.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
I agree kathleen. Our company also does not allow music in our kitchens. But I agree that it is a great motivational tool that also speeds up and intensifies the daily cleanup routine that the students usually do not look forward to. I find an electic mix of instrumental music works great.
I have not tried using music in the class room. I like the idea of playing somehting quiet as the students enter the classroom. I'm afraid I will forget my lecture if I play music while I'm speaking.
I am very interested in repeating the experiment of test gradeswith music and test grades without music.
Due to copyrite laws our company will not alow us to play music in the room unless it comes in over the radio.
In the kitchen classroom this works really well
I tried this yesterday in the classroom. I have had several disipline issues with this class and decided to play quiet music a students arrived and on the break. All but one of the students calmed and began listining to the lecture. I will continune to use this idea in my class this term.
I use music as an enhancement tool for literature classes. I have also found music to be a integral part of the analysis process in English classes.
Great Rebecca!
I have had the same results. Our lives as so full of stimuli coming from all directions so if we can have a moment to take a deep breath, is helps us be more successful.
Good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
Great Rhonda!
I can completely understand how music in lit classes is very positive. Just think about how many people relax with a good book and soft, soothing music. What music do you use?
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
I agree, playing music during a non-educational times, such as the cleaning at the end of a lab course, both facilitates positive peer interactions and attitudes while increasing productivity.
