Teachers, principal and staff members across the district have an issue with their students listening to music in class. They believe that it essentially hurts their education and lessens their ability to work.
As someone who listens to music while doing work, I believe that listening to music with headphones or even out loud promotes a better work environment and increases focus. The phone ban that is taking place throughout the Los Angeles Unified School District’s (LAUSD) schools makes it even harder for students to listen to music, hence the lack of focus and increase in distractions. Therefore, it is frustrating that some teachers don’t allow their kids to listen to music while working on homework or assignments in class.
According to Northeastern Global News from Northeastern University, almost 80% of adults have music playing while they work. They have expressed that it helps improve their level of focus and motivation according to Healthline. People with ADHD diagnosed or not have reported that they get very easily distracted or hyperactive and listening to music helps to reduce that.
Listening to music activates both the left and right side of the brain. This can improve the level of concentration and help with memory, according to Dr. Masha Godkin from National University. This can both help kids in school and outside of school. Being able to retain information helps with keeping your grades up and getting better at your job, which some students may have. Doing work around the house also requires concentration to be able to get things like chores done quicker.
I understand why parents, teachers and staff wouldn’t want their kids/workers to be listening to music while working. It could be distracting and some people take advantage of it. They do other things like Facetime or call people, watch shows or text others.
“Yes, I do listen to music while working at school.” Freshman Millia Ruebnyan said. “It helps me concentrate because it blocks out all the unnecessary noise around me. Yes, I do see a difference in my work when I’m listening to music rather than when I’m not because it doesn’t distract me and it helps me engage in whatever I’m doing.”
Multitasking, having the ability to listen to something and work is a skill that can be adapted from having that hands-on experience. After reading and taking in this information, I hope that teachers, parents, and others see the good that comes out of listening to music.
