Singing and student well-being researched
A research project by Te Kōkī New Zealand School of Music that examines the relationship between singing programmes and student wellbeing has been selected by the government’s Teaching and Learning Research Initiative as one of six projects to fund in its 2015 round.
The project will examine the relationship between singing programmes and well-being at Waitākiri School in Christchurch – a school based in a community severely affected by the Christchurch earthquakes.
NZSM's Senior Lecturer in Music Therapy, Dr Daphne Rickson (pictured), who is the principal investigator for the project, says there is good evidence to suggest singing is a highly motivating medium that can have a positive impact on well-being.
“The evidence that well-being influences learning is uncontested. Our aim is to learn how to maximise the use of singing for well-being, and to inform other schools about the ways singing can support well-being, especially during exceptionally difficult circumstances.
“When teachers feel competent and confident about singing they are more likely to use it, and to use it successfully.”
The $130,000 project will start in January 2016 and finish in December 2017. Victoria University’s Senior Lecturer in Music Education, Dr Robert Legg, and Waitākiri School Deputy Principal Dianna Reynolds are the other research team members.
The team will carry out Action Research that examines the existing situation, plans and implement actions and then evaluates these, leading to further action. The research will include encouraging learners to express what classroom singing means to them.
In announcing the six projects, Education Minister Hekia Parata said they would benefit teachers and students for years to come.
“The fund intends to get teachers and researchers working together to find solutions. This is essential if we want to keep improving our kids’ experience of education and the options they have once they leave school.”