The Effect Of Background Music In A High School Special Education Classroom PDF Download

The benefits of background music use have long been studied. The results in general education settings have been equivocal but the benefits for students with special education needs cannot be denied. According to research, background music can have a positive effect on students with learning disabilities, students with ADHD, students with emotional disturbance, and also students with autism. In a general education classroom, music can be used to improve mood and result in an increase in academic achievement. The purpose of this research was to determine the extent to which background music is being used in general education classrooms while also discovering why teachers use background music. Many teachers are using music in their classrooms with the benefits, as described by the teachers, being increased task attendance, better focus, and happier, more positive environments. However, most teachers are not aware of the research involving music so it can be assumed that their use of background music is primarily because of the positive effects that they perceive. More importantly, teachers indicated that they would be willing to increase their background music use if lists were compiled for them for different beneficial effects. In the future, background music could be used as a tool to benefit all students in an inclusive classroom.