The effect of musical mnemonics on learning and recall in preschool-aged children with developmental disabilities
Date
2015
Authors
Selph, Audrey, author
LaGasse, Blythe, advisor
Thaut, Michael, advisor
Davalos, Deana, committee member
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess whether musical mnemonics rehearsal is more effective than verbal rehearsal on immediate and delayed recall of novel information for preschool-aged children with developmental delays. Forty 3- to 5-year old children in a special education program were selected from a prescreening process as participants. Participants were randomly divided into two groups by a computerized randomizer. Group 1 received all input in spoken format and Group 2 received all input in sung format. All participants listened to a random, non-repetitive seven-digit number. Sung numbers matched the opening phrase of "Old MacDonald." For each trial, the researcher played the pre-recorded number five times. The number of correct consecutive digits was recorded both at the end of each hearing, after a one-minute distraction and following a five minute delay. Since there was evidence of skew in the serial order recall results, serial scores were compared within group and across groups using non-parametric statistical analysis. Results showed no significant difference between the music and non-music groups. Overall serial order recall scores were low, suggesting that the digit span was beyond the developmental capabilities of many of the participants. There was a significant effect of time and age, however. Paired comparisons showed significantly greater recall in Trial 4 versus Trial 1, and in Trial 5 versus delayed recall, suggesting both an increase in recall due to learning and a decrease in recall after the 5-minute delay and distraction activity. Five-year olds also performed significantly better than 3-4 year olds on delayed absolute recall and immediate serial order recall. Future research suggestions are discussed.
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Subject
disability
music therapy
recall
mnemonics
developmental
preschool