Integrating music in the teaching and learning of numeracy and literacy at preschools in the Awutu-Senya East municipality.

Abstract

There is compelling evidence that music engagement enhances the sensory, cognitive, emotional, and motor skills, which are the driving forces behind all learning. This study aimed to investigate the extent to which music is integrated into the teaching of numeracy and literacy, and also suggest strategies of integrating music into preschool numeracy and literacy pedagogy. Three theoretical perspectives underpinned the study namely the Theory of Multiple Intelligence (Howard Gardener, 1999), the Synopsis of Multiple Intelligences exemplified in Ephraim Amu’s Ti ri ne Nsa ne Koma Song (1952), and Robert Root-Bernstein's Synosia Phenomenon (2002) which says ‘to know is to feel and to feel is to know.’ The study employed a qualitative research approach through a case study research design. The population for the study consisted of Nursery and KG teachers in the Awutu Senya East Municipality. A sample size of 18 participants were purposively selected for the study. An interview guide was used to gather the qualitative data for the study. Responses from the in-depth interview were transcribed, coded, and analysed to generate themes. The study revealed that preschool teachers understood the numerous benefits Music brings to a child's development, particularly in his/her cognitive, psychomotor, social, and emotional growth. The study again revealed that integrating music into the teaching of numeracy and literacy in preschool classrooms can enhance children's engagement and understanding of vocabulary, comprehension, mathematical thinking, critical thinking, and socioemotional skills. It was recommended that songs in the indigenous languages (L1) be taught and sung frequently in the school as they are capable of increasing pupils’ understanding levels in numeracy and literacy as well as instilling in them, good moral values. It was again recommended that Curriculum designers could include music-based activities and materials in preschool curricula to promote the teaching of numeracy and literacy.