Sunday, 11 September 2011

Helping Students Improve Homework Using Binaural Beats

By Allan Murphy


A new fad on the market today is binaural beats. These sounds can maximize productivity, alter mind states, resolve sleeplessness, address health issues, and serve many other needs. Researchers in the 1800s found that by using sounds, brainwaves could be altered to match what was heard. It was found that as sounds were adjusted, brainwaves would follow.

Researchers have found that this works particularly well with students who hate homework. Various tracks are geared for different issues and some are now available specifically geared to the school-age children. Finding the track that works best with this group is important because many factors, such as lack of motivation and anxiety, can impact assignment completion.

Anxiety is often a deterring factor for students when it comes to homework. The support network found at school is gone once home and they can feel overwhelmed as to how to complete assignments on their own. What seemed like simple strategies in the classroom, suddenly become barriers they are powerless to overcome. However, with a computer or MP3 player, comfortable chair, blindfold, and headphones, a student's confidence and mindset can motivate them to complete work.

It's important that tracks designed to improve concentration, memory, and motivation are selected. Once students put on headphones and blindfold they relax in a chair and the volume is set to prevent distraction while still being heard. This technique reduces the impact of other senses in order to enhance hearing. A few deep breaths and they are ready to begin.

After 20 to 30 minutes, the track will automatically stop and the student can remove the blindfold and begin work. Students report there are many immediately noticeable benefits. They can focus better and are able to recall new information more easily. They also notice that grades improve as more homework is completed and test scores improve.

Tracks are designed to play different sounds in each ear that are slightly different. These sounds are no more than 30 hz apart. However, the brain is only able to hear the difference between the two sounds, rather than each sound independently.

The binaural beats are designed to move brainwave patterns into a positive direction. The result is motivation to complete homework which serves as practice for new concepts learned in the classroom. For many students it is making a huge impact on their education.




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