This unit of study explores how musical sound is identified and processed by the human ear and brain and the subsequent effects and interrelationships music has with our memory, emotions, and physical wellbeing. Students begin with a review of hearing and brain anatomy and function, with a focus on the neural processes that transfer sound from the ear to the brain and the parts of the brain responsible for processing auditory information. This leads to an exploration of how people identify and recognise sounds, undergoing the process from sensation to cognition. The unit then continues with studies of the relationship between music and memory, and between music and emotion. The effects of music on childhood development and learning are then explored, as well as an introduction to the principles of music therapy and the potential effects music can have on treating people with illnesses and disabilities. The unit concludes with an exploration of theories of musical talent, and the essential cognitive traits of a professional or expert musician.
Unit details
Prerequisites
Students enrolled in course code ABAB and LBLA must complete at least 24 credit points (equivalent to 2 units) of an Arts Major before undertaking any Level 3 units.
Contact us
- Visit a student service centre
- 1300 VIC UNI (1300 842 864)
- Chat with us online
- Ask questions at GOTOVU
Find a different unit
Learning Outcomes
| 1. | Articulate key theoretical concepts and terminology related to psychoacoustics, music perception and cognition; | ||
| 2. | Analyse and evaluate how sound and music affect intellectual, emotional and physical states in both everyday and therapeutic contexts; | ||
| 3. | Discriminate between objective physical sensations and responses, and subjective emotional/intellectual sensations and responses to sound and music; | ||
| 4. | Reflect on the effects music has on life experience, memory and cultural identity; and | ||
| 5. | Investigate the effects of musical exposure and tuition on childhood development. |
Assessment
| Assessment type | Description | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | Detailed exploration of one area of interest (equiv. 2000 words) | 25% |
| Examination | Lecture topics and key terminologies (equiv. 750 words) | 50% |
| Test | Short online quizzes (equiv. 250 words) | 25% |
Required reading
This Is Your Brain On Music
Levitin, D 2008,
London: Atlantic Books
Where to next?
As part of a course
You can choose to study this unit as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to structure your course to include this unit.
Study a single unit
This unit may be available as a single unit of study.
Find out more about how to apply for single units of study at VU.
VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.
