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Using Music in Lessons
In this section:
Music surrounds us. We turn to it in
our homes and in our cars; we sing it on our playgrounds and in
our choirs; we hear it in the whisper of the wind through the
trees. Music energizes us, moves our bodies to the rhythm of a
beat, enlightens us, makes us happy or sad. Music heals us. Through
chants and songs, music can actually bring us back into balance
so we experience greater well-being, increased energy, and better
health. Music is a dynamic force which has profound implications
in an educational setting.
Music is an activity that engages the whole
brain. Traditionally, schools have taught to the left brain--the
logical, linear side-- which is poorer at memory storage than
the right side. Since music uses both sides of the brain, it allows
us to put information into our long-term memory more easily.
Additionally, music helps create a relaxed,
comfortable learning environment. Few of us would disagree with
the idea that when we feel good--when we are in a calm, relaxed
state --we are more receptive to learning; so we learn better.
Music helps us reduce stress, enhance our sense of well-being,
and activate our minds.
Are there certain kinds of music that create
a more effective learning environment? According to the work of
Georgi Lozanov, both classical and baroque music are the most
conducive to linking learning with music. Terry Wyler Webb, in
his book, Accelerated Learning with Music, says that both
classical and baroque music "...produce the right frequencies
and sounds which harmonize the functioning of the body and the
brain." At the back of these cards, we've listed several pieces
of classical and baroque music which have proven to be effective
in teaching.
We have discovered at least three ways music
can be used in tutoring sessions:
1. To create a relaxed and comfortable
learning environment.
2. To be used with guided imagery
exercises.
3. To reinforce and review concepts
presented in the tutoring session.
Next page:
General Tips About Using Music
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