Educational methodology
We have put knowledge from paedogogical research and neuroscience into practice at Cantaleum. Music and bilingualism play the central roles in the success of this approach.
Success Factor 1: Reinforcement
Singing and making music reinforces learning abilities through:
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attention, ability to concentrate
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acoustic memory
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learned musical patterns (melody, rhythm, tempo) and sensomotor skills required for singing combine to train self-monitoring, self-correction, and fine motor skills
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deeper abdominal (diaphragmic) breathing and diaphragmic vibration reduces feelings of uncertainty and fear
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reduced adrenalin levels
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increased production of oxytocin (“the social bonding hormone”) enhances ability to empathise with others
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increased serotonin levels (“the mood-enhancing hormone”)
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Sources: Schellenberg, 2004, as cited by Jäncke, 2008; Blank & Adamek, 2010
Success factor 2: Individualisation
Successful, individualised learning is a result of the following factors:
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clear purpose of learning, clear goals and appropriately-challenging learning requirements, and encouragement toward achievement
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use of varied and targeted teaching methods with special emphasis on feedback
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viewing learning and teaching from the perspective of students
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placing value on teaching learning techniques and learning strategies
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Sources: Waxman, Wang, Anderson & Walberg, 1985, as cited by Hattie, 2013
Success factor 3:
Focus
Positive focus through:
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challenges set at an appropriate level
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finding connections between different subjects and topics
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peers interested in the same topics
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bilingual way of life in a day school setting
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Source: Hattie, 2013
Success factor 4: Motivation
Practicing independence, new skills, and social integration through:
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individual and ensemble singing
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freedom of choice and freedom of action
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experiencing self-efficacy through own actions and performance
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Sources: Deci & Ryan, 1993, as cited in Berlinger, Birri & Zumsteg, 2006; Heckhausen & Heckhausen, 2010