TY - JOUR
T1 - Teaching science with the “universal language” of music
T2 - alignment with the Universal Design for Learning framework
AU - Crowther, Gregory J.
AU - Adjapong, Edmund
AU - Jenkins, Lekelia D.
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
© Copyright 2023 the American Physiological Society.
PY - 2023
Y1 - 2023
N2 - The idea of teaching science through music has undeniable appeal in implying that learning can be engaging and fun while also covering content efficiently. Indeed, there is little doubt that songs can be uniquely memorable, suggesting mnemonic options for core content. However, many classroom implementations of science music have limitations such as an overemphasis on rote memorization, rather than a constructivist building of understanding. In this brief review, we ask how music might facilitate the learning of science content in a manner consistent with the well-known pedagogical framework of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). In our view, UDL suggests certain distinct possible benefits of incorporating music into curricula, leading us to propose four models of practice. These four models are as follows: 1) students enjoy music together, 2) students critically analyze songs as texts, 3) students creatively augment existing songs, and 4) students create new songs. Model 1 can contribute to an inclusive learning environment, while models 2–4 can encourage cognitively rich active learning, and models 3–4 can additionally help students channel scientific understanding into the creation of authentic products. We conclude with comments on logistical issues that arise in implementing these four models, including the use of appropriate rubrics and the prioritization of artistic quality. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Instructors and students often find it fun to incorporate music into science classes. However, the casual usage of music in this context can unintentionally convey that science courses are mostly about memorizing scientific facts. In this article, the authors argue for a more nuanced approach to teaching science with music, rooted in Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
AB - The idea of teaching science through music has undeniable appeal in implying that learning can be engaging and fun while also covering content efficiently. Indeed, there is little doubt that songs can be uniquely memorable, suggesting mnemonic options for core content. However, many classroom implementations of science music have limitations such as an overemphasis on rote memorization, rather than a constructivist building of understanding. In this brief review, we ask how music might facilitate the learning of science content in a manner consistent with the well-known pedagogical framework of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). In our view, UDL suggests certain distinct possible benefits of incorporating music into curricula, leading us to propose four models of practice. These four models are as follows: 1) students enjoy music together, 2) students critically analyze songs as texts, 3) students creatively augment existing songs, and 4) students create new songs. Model 1 can contribute to an inclusive learning environment, while models 2–4 can encourage cognitively rich active learning, and models 3–4 can additionally help students channel scientific understanding into the creation of authentic products. We conclude with comments on logistical issues that arise in implementing these four models, including the use of appropriate rubrics and the prioritization of artistic quality. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Instructors and students often find it fun to incorporate music into science classes. However, the casual usage of music in this context can unintentionally convey that science courses are mostly about memorizing scientific facts. In this article, the authors argue for a more nuanced approach to teaching science with music, rooted in Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
KW - STEAM
KW - Science Genius
KW - UDL framework
KW - song lyrics analysis
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U2 - 10.1152/ADVAN.00006.2023
DO - 10.1152/ADVAN.00006.2023
M3 - Article
C2 - 37102712
AN - SCOPUS:85163902288
SN - 1043-4046
VL - 47
SP - 491
EP - 498
JO - Advances in Physiology Education
JF - Advances in Physiology Education
IS - 3
ER -