While studying or working, listening to music can improve focus, morale and significantly increase productivity. Playing music in class and throughout the school day could help students focus and benefit morale.
Students who struggle to focus may find it easier to stay engaged with their classes if music is played in the background. According to the Stanford Medicine News Center, music “engages the areas of the brain involved with paying attention, making predictions and updating the event in memory.” Many students already enjoy the benefits of listening to music when working on homework or studying outside of school. It is worth considering that it could also positively affect student outcomes if implemented during the school day.
Music can also be valuable for improving student morale. According to the American Psychiatry Association, music “plays a role in mood regulation,” and a study done by the National Library of Medicine found that music positively impacts the human stress response. When students are struggling, things like the music they enjoy or the energy in a class can make a significant impact on their ability to learn or be productive that day.
In addition to improving mood, music can also boost productivity and keep students motivated throughout the day. A study done by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America found that music is a “neurobiological reward capable of motivating learning.”
Although many try to maintain a silent environment for learning, playing music in the background of classes has the potential to aid focus, improve mood, and increase productivity. Teachers and students should utilize music to improve academic performance and emotional well-being.