Researchers from the University of Dundee have evaluated the impact of the Big Noise Douglas (BND) programme in the city from 2017 to 2020, and found that ‘BND is having positive impacts on children, families and the community’.
The Big Noise music education scheme is targeted at deprived communities across Scotland, and Douglas is one of Dundee’s most deprived areas.
BND was launched by Sistema Scotland in September 2017 and gives young people music lessons which build their confidence and communication skills. It works with approximately 342 children from two local primary schools – St Pius X RC and Claypotts Castle Primary.
The researchers collected data from children, parents, school professionals and BND staff and found that the children who took part in BND were better at listening, concentrating, working with others and building positive relationships.
Professor Divya Jindal-Snape, who led the study, said: “Our participants reported that the positive impact of Big Noise Douglas was due to children having the opportunity to learn music and express themselves in a fun and safe environment. Children felt a positive impact as they were given nutritious food and built valuable relationships with the Big Noise Douglas staff.”
BND staff were also praised for their creativity, adaptability and quick action due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Parents and professionals reported that BND’s online delivery provided children with some normality during lockdown.
The researchers have recommended that the Big Noise scheme in Douglas be extended into the area’s high schools.
SOURCES:
University of Dundee: https://discovery.dundee.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/67647597/Big_Noise_Evaluation_Report_Final_01_11_21.pdf
Daily Record: https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/big-noise-dundee-douglas-research-25524163
DETAILS:
| BENEFIT: | LIFE & SOCIAL SKILLS, EMOTIONAL WELLBEING |
| TARGET GROUP: | PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN |
| AGE: | 4-11 YEARS-OLD |
| MUSIC TYPE: | GENERAL |
| TYPE OF STUDY: | ACADEMIC RESEARCH |
| NOs INVOLVED: | 342 |
| PERIOD OF STUDY: | 4 MONTHS |
| DATE: | 2021 |
| PLACE: | SCOTLAND |
Music Education Works 