Music and Language: interview with Allison Cameron

In this episode I chat with Allison Cameron, who is completing a PhD at the University of Wollongong. Her research has looked at the effects of a children's music education program upon the language development of 4 and 5 year-olds. The music program is called Tuning In - it's part of the Shoalhaven Youth Orchestra, based in Nowra on the NSW south coast.

Although Allison’s research focuses on preschool-aged children, there's so much relevance in it to music teaching in the early primary years. She would love to be able to communicate about her research and the wider benefits of well-structured and implemented music programs.

Episode highlights:

• Allison’s research into the effects of a children’s music education program on language development 4 & 5 year olds.
• The ‘Tuning-In’ program in the shoalhaven area - to increase pool of students playing instruments (to join orchestra)
• Seeing language development problems in pre-school.
• Developing a way to research the effects of a music program on preschool children.
• 4 preschools - two of which became ‘Tuning in’ schools.
• Testing for phonological awareness.
• Improvements in communication.
• Music making is a social practice and provides a framework for building relationships.
• Playing music in a group is the ultimate team sport and builds self-esteem.
• Telling stories with instruments.
• Babies, language and singing.

HINTS & TIPS VIDEO: https://youtu.be/8u5Jc3D5p3c