There is always that one person in class who has an earbud for listening to music. It is against Lakeland High School’s policy. Personally, I do not believe they should not be.
Music is proven to help people focus more. This may only be true for some. However, some would like to have the choice of listening to their favorite music while working. Yet, this can cause additional issues.
Having music while working in class can become more of a distraction than a tool.
“I rarely play music in class because it distracts students,” Laura Kelley, a teacher at LHS, said. “I only do it if it is around the holidays.”
Ultimately, the topic should be left up to the teacher because they are the ones who may have to discipline students if it gets out of hand.
Music can also help to ease test anxiety for some people. It helps calm the mind and relieves stress. According to the National University, music stimulates both the left and right sides of the brain, maximizing learning capability.
“I think it is a great way to help students focus,” Rebecca Hasz said.
It is especially great for studying because it also helps with memory. Using a playlist is best because it is less distracting than the radio. After all, there are not as many interjections.
The music should also be quiet because it is supposed to be in the background and able to let someone think. Personally, even background music in class makes the day so much better.
Dead silence is awkward and almost makes it hard to think.
“I am a person who hates complete silence, so that is why I play music in my class,” Hasz said.
However, the music can be quiet because that can cause more distraction, and the noise level can be overwhelming, especially if everyone is talking.
Some teachers here at LHS play music during class. It is not all classical music, either.
Language teachers use music to help familiarize students with the culture.
Michael Dunn, a teacher at LHS, has several music genres used throughout the school week, such as Taylor Swift Tuesday, Frank Sinatra Friday, Throwback Thursday and Mongolian Metal Monday.
“I’ve never had complaints about using music in my class,” Hasz said.
I love it when teachers play music in class because it helps the course not be so stressed.
In Beth Letzig’s third-period honors English class last year, she played the cha-cha slide, and everyone got up, took a break and danced. This can be great, especially during finals week when the pressure is on students to finish the semester strong.
Students should also be able to use personal headphones during work time in class.
The rules that should accompany this freedom are that only one earbud can be in at a time and should not be in while the teacher is talking.
Other than that, it should be allowed. But students should not abuse the privilege of being allowed to have their phone out either. Pick a song or playlist, but still be productive.
