For most of us, our seminar time is spent with headphones in, music playing in the background as we work on homework or study for tests. These specific background playlists tend to help students (myself included) do their work, and do it efficiently. There is a rule, however, that bans the use of headphones in seminar. This rule needs to be reconsidered.

There have been many studies conducted over the effects of music on a student’s academic career. According to study.com, “Background music may improve focus on a task by providing motivation and improving mood. During long study sessions, music can aid endurance.” Music can greatly improve a student’s ability to focus on the work at hand. Of course, studies have also shown that the student’s work ethic depends on the type of music that they are listening to, but this differs from person to person.

If students are quietly completing their homework during seminar, a period dedicated to just that, why should it matter if they are listening to music as well? Some students use the music simply to block out other distractions around them. Music is a very important tool for anyone, not just in school, but in their everyday life. It can be used to soothe anxiety, lift moods, and strengthen motivation. The positives of listening to music in school far outweigh the negatives. Besides, if a student decides that they would rather listen to music or visit with friends than do their homework, that is their loss.

As someone who suffers from severe anxiety, I can say that music definitely helps me do my schoolwork. It is much easier for me to focus and complete my work than if I was not listening to music. This is the case for most people, so they should be allowed to listen to music during the designated study time.