‘Repetition and Learning’

Posted in SSZ Briefings  ·  July 5th 2016

Unveiling the Power of Repetition in Music: A Gateway to Active Learning

Unravelling the Mystery of Catchy Tunes

Ever found yourself humming a tune incessantly, unable to shake it off? Chances are, you’ve fallen under the spell of musical repetition. Whether it’s the ubiquitous melody blaring from radios or the familiar refrain echoing in your mind, repetition is the secret sauce behind the catchiest of songs. But why does it hold such sway over our auditory senses?

The Science Behind the Symphony

Elizabeth Hellmuth Margullis, luminary director of the Music Cognition Lab at the University of Arkansas, offers insight into this musical enigma. According to Margullis, repetition serves as a conduit for active engagement, beckoning listeners to immerse themselves in the sonic tapestry. In this TED video she elucidates:

“Repetition gives rise to a kind of orientation to sound that we think of as distinctively musical where we’re listening along with the sound, engaging imaginatively with the note about to happen.”

The Symphony of Learning: Active Engagement in Education

Drawing parallels between musical repetition and pedagogical practice, Margullis’s research underscores the transformative potential of active learning. Just as repetition invites listeners to participate actively in the musical journey, educators can harness the power of engagement to invigorate classroom dynamics.

Unlocking the Melodic Potential of Education

As educators, we are entrusted with nurturing the minds of tomorrow. By integrating principles of active learning into our pedagogical repertoire, we empower students to transcend passive consumption, fostering a culture of curiosity and exploration. Let us heed the symphonic call of repetition, transforming classrooms into vibrant arenas of discovery and growth.

Lessons for Educators: A Harmonious Blend of Theory and Practice

Incorporating insights from Margullis’s research, educators can reimagine their approach to teaching:

  1. Embrace Active Learning: Cultivate an environment where students actively engage with course material, fostering deeper understanding and retention.
  2. Foster Curiosity: Encourage students to explore new perspectives and ideas, igniting a passion for lifelong learning.
  3. Create Meaningful Repetition: Infuse lessons with strategic repetition, guiding students on a journey of discovery and mastery.
  4. Embrace Innovation: Embrace innovative teaching methodologies that inspire creativity and critical thinking, propelling students towards academic excellence.

Join the Symphony of Learning

As we embark on this pedagogical odyssey, let us harness the melodic potential of education, transforming classrooms into vibrant hubs of discovery and growth. Together, we can orchestrate a harmonious symphony of learning, empowering students to embark on a lifelong journey of intellectual curiosity and exploration.

#MusicInEducation #ActiveLearning,#Pedagogy #StudentEngagement #EducationalResearch #TEDTalks #MusicCognition #LifelongLearning

Are there lessons from this research for how we teach?


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