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Casefile: Investigating the Effects of Music on Cognitive Performance

Background Information:

Music has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, influencing emotions, behaviors,
and even cognitive processes. The relationship between music and cognition has intrigued
researchers for decades, leading to numerous studies exploring how music impacts various
aspects of human cognitive functioning. One area of particular interest is the effect of music on
cognitive performance, including memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.

Explanation of the Topic:

The study aims to investigate the influence of music on cognitive performance through a series
of experiments conducted at home. Participants will be asked to perform cognitive tasks under
different musical conditions, including listening to music, silence, and white noise. Cognitive
tasks may include memory recall exercises, attention tests, and problem-solving tasks. By
comparing participants' performance across different musical conditions, we can gain insights
into how music affects cognitive functioning.

Significance of the Topic:

Understanding the impact of music on cognitive performance has significant implications for
various fields, including education, therapy, and workplace productivity. If music is found to
enhance cognitive performance, it could be utilized as a tool to improve learning outcomes in
educational settings, aid in cognitive rehabilitation therapies, and optimize work environments
for better productivity. Conversely, if music is found to impair cognitive performance under
certain conditions, it could inform guidelines for minimizing distractions in learning and work
environments.

What I Learned:

Through conducting this research study, I gained valuable insights into the complex relationship
between music and cognitive performance. While the results of the study are still pending, the
process of designing experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results has deepened my
understanding of research methodology and the interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science.

Citations:

1. Salimpoor, V. N., Benovoy, M., Larcher, K., Dagher, A., & Zatorre, R. J. (2011).
Anatomically distinct dopamine release during anticipation and experience of peak
emotion to music. Nature neuroscience, 14(2), 257–262. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn.2726
2. Thoma, M. V., Scholz, U., Ehlert, U., & Nater, U. M. (2013). Listening to music and
physiological and psychological functioning: the mediating role of emotion regulation
and stress reactivity. Psychosomatic medicine, 75(3), 274–283.
https://doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0b013e3182886262
3. Jakobson, L. S., Lewycky, S. T., Kilgour, A. R., & Stoesz, B. M. (2008). Memory for
verbal and visual material in highly trained musicians. Music Perception: An
Interdisciplinary Journal, 26(1), 41–55. https://doi.org/10.1525/mp.2008.26.1.41

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