Janice Wood, writing on the PsychCentral website, reports that:
“Playing the drums for an hour a week can help autistic children learn in school, according to a new study.
The study, from researchers at the University of Chichester and University Centre Hartpury in England, found that students’ ability to follow instructions improved after 10 weeks of drumming, with the students showing significant improvements in dexterity, rhythm, and timing.
The study also showed that the students’ ability to follow their teachers’ instructions improved significantly. Drumming also enhanced the kids’ social interactions with other students and members of school staff.
The study involved pupils from Milestone School in Gloucester who took part in a 10-week drumming program made up of two 30-minute sessions each week, researchers explained.
The study is a continuation of research undertaken by academics, known collectively as the Clem Burke Drumming Project, that includes the iconic Blondie drummer, and is aimed at demonstrating the value of musical instruments to students requiring additional education support …”
Read more here.
