The Irvine study also says increased abilities fade after about an hour. However, Prater says participating in music performance does indeed increase brain size and cognitive ability by challenging the mind, a position that has been proven true in various studies. Using Prater's logic, Mozart really doesn't have an edge over Limp Bizkit as far as studying is concerned. Though classical music may or may not affect how well a student studies, in an experiment conducted at ISU, rock music was shown to be detrimental to certain types of learning. The study, conceived of by a student of psychology professor Brad Bushman, dealt with the effect of rock 'n' roll on students' abilities to solve math problems and their comprehension of verbal and reading material.
Soundtracks are really good - ones that are instrumental only.
The Browsing Library operates on the idea that soft music helps to create an atmosphere that is conducive to studying. It keeps a request book so that patrons of the room can determine what they want to hear while studying. Ultimately, the effect of music on studying depends on the person. Whether it actually increases brain activity or not, students will continue to use music as a studying tool. Student Advantage, Inc.