Music Psychology

Overview

This module introduces key themes in music psychology. These include models and experimental data relating to music cognition and perceptual processing; auditory neuroscience and the neuropsychology of music; developmental music psychology; empirical and experimental studies regarding the function and role of emotion in music; and applications of music in therapeutic, medical and commercial contexts. Additionally the module provides an introduction to psychological research methodology and the critical-analytical thinking employed in the behavioural sciences.

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to demonstrate a critical appreciation of the existing theoretical accounts of musical perception, processing and action. Students will be able to apply psychological methods to novel music-related questions. Students will understand the relationship between published science and how it is presented in the media. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of psychological concepts applied to music and bring psychological, critical thinking to bear on issues relevant to music production and creative technologies.

Skills

(i) Develop facility to review, critically evaluate and synthesise a body of psychological knowledge related to music and sonic arts.
(ii) Engage in processes of reflective scientific, psychological thinking.
(iii) Writing and communication skills related to production of an assignment which evidences ability to engage in critical analysis of relevant literature.
(iv) Identify, analyse and solve problems by prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action.
(v) Work with information and handle a mass of diverse data, assess risk and draw conclusions (analysis, attention to detail, judgement).
(vi) Possess high level transferable key skills such as the ability to work with others in a team, to communicate (both orally and in writing), influence, negotiate and resolve conflict.
(vii) Have the ability and desire to learn for oneself and improve one's self-awareness and performance, to uphold the values of lifelong learning and demonstrate emotional intelligence.
(viii) Demonstrate confidence and motivation to start and to finish the job, adaptability / flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership, decision-making, negotiating and the ability to cope with stress.

Assessment

None