A Population-Level Analysis of Associations Between School Music Participation and Academic Achievement

A Population-Level Analysis of Associations Between School Music Participation and Academic Achievement

ABSTRACT: The study is a population level analysis (n = 112,916) examining relationships between music education and mathematics, science and Engligh achievement in highschool. It also controlled for factors such as language/cultural background and socioeconomic status. School music achievement positively related to scores on all subjects; such relationships were stronger for achievement in instrumental music compared with vocal music. Higher levels of music engagement (number of courses) was related to higher exam scores on all subjects. The effect sizes of these group differences are greater than the effect sizes corresponding to average annual gains of students’ academic achievement during high school—in other words, highly engaged instrumental music students were, on average, academically over 1 year ahead of their peers. The findings suggest that multiyear engagement in music, especially instrumental music, may benefit high school academic achievement.

AUTHOR SUMMARY: Guhn, M., Emerson, S. D., & Gouzouasis, P.

READ MORE: https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2019-34936-001.html