Music as a Bridge: Enhancing Cognitive, Emotional, and Social Skills in Education

Music has long been recognized as a universal art form with the ability to transcend cultural boundaries. Its therapeutic and educational potential, especially in promoting mental health and supporting learning, is well-documented. This paper explores the role of music in enhancing cognitive, emotional, and social skills in education, with a focus on its potential benefits for students in Iran. Given the rise in mental health concerns among children and adolescents, music therapy (MT) presents a promising non-invasive approach to reducing anxiety, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting psychological well-being. Drawing on neuroscience and psychological research, the paper outlines how music engages brain regions responsible for memory, attention, and executive function, thus supporting cognitive development. The proposed pilot program for Iranian schools aims to integrate music into the curriculum in a culturally sensitive and research-based manner, enhancing students' emotional resilience, cognitive abilities, and social skills. This program incorporates traditional Iranian music while also fostering cultural understanding through global music appreciation. The proposed integration spans various age groups and subject areas, offering music breaks, creative songwriting, and performance opportunities to reinforce academic learning. The paper concludes by outlining the potential outcomes of the program, including improved cognitive function, reduced stress, and enhanced social cohesion, and presents strategies for overcoming challenges related to teacher training, resource limitations, and program resistance.

کلیدواژه ها:

music therapy ، music psychology ، education