In the beginning of quarter four, math teacher Connor Moran announced to his classes in the beginning of quarter four to not allow music anymore. Moran is not the only teacher to ban music, other teachers also don’t allow music in classrooms, as it can be seen as a distraction. “I have found that when students have their airpods in, they’re listening to music in class so they’re less likely to hear what I’m saying or what each other are saying. It’s easier to disengage from what’s happening,” said Moran.

However, not all teachers are on the same page. Some teachers allow music such as history teacher Micheal Meizes. “If the teacher is directly teaching and giving instruction or if someone’s doing a presentation, I think that would be rude. But if they’re working on something like a slideshow or a project, as long as they’re working, I’m fine with it,” Meizes said. 

Although phones might be distracting, there is some evidence that suggests that listening to music on your phone may have benefits. According to Right as Rain, music has shown to improve mood and stress levels, and it is a big part in people’s mental health practices. It can also have an impact on how people feel physical pain. For example, it is recommended to listen to music during labor because dopamine can raise good emotions and lower one’s perception of pain during experiences like these. 

Students tend to listen to music when they are doing their schoolwork the most. “I usually listen to music when I’m working at school when the teacher allows it, or at home, and it really helps me do my work quicker,” said sophomore Rylee Coffin. 

Music creates a more enjoyable and productive environment because it makes people feel focused, motivated and relaxed. It can also make tasks feel less overwhelming and more engaging. Sophomore Taylor Breen said, “I think it helps students focus, and sometimes it can be a good, calming tool that people use when they just need space or a break and I think as long as they’re being quiet and productive with it, I think every student should be allowed to listen to music.” 

Some people can see music as a distraction, especially upbeat music like rap. People usually listen to calming and relaxing music.  “I don’t think music is distracting but it sometimes depends on the type of music. If it is something like rap or pop, it can be distracting,”  says sophomore Maddy Grenon.

Many schools have strict rules about headphone use during school. According to CT Insider, Manchester  High School recently placed a ban on phones and students using them may face disciplinary consequences. While music can help some students focus, it can also be a major distraction because students are tempted to check their phones during class. This can also be a safety issue. Using AirPods in a busy school environment can prevent students from hearing announcements, instructions, or warnings which can be a risk. Also, if students happen to be outside on school grounds and are wearing headphones, it could be hard to hear vehicles coming. 7 San Diego says a teen got hit by a truck while on her phone. The teen ended up dying, despite people trying to warn her.  

According to University of Maryland Global Campus, instrumental and classical music such as Mozart is a very good choice to listen to while studying. Music with lyrics can be negative because people can get caught up in the lyrics. There are premade playlists on music platforms specifically for studying. An example of this could be a playlist for a coffee shop. Coffee shops are places people study hence, the music is similar to studying music. This largely depends on how, when, and why it’s used and who it’s used by. Here are some examples of playlists students can listen to: 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX9sIqqvKsjG8?si=tQLCXhxrSsm4kzVa0ea4Gg&pi=iNV8pUKzRRGq1

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6dEdaN9tg6S5x4v698ARfb?si=B0nudkgIQ7ixqzlsjmJ4Bw&pi=DC-Tx9N2TlSgM

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2sZYutAwhMODqCaS0mYj4Z?si=-PHv_0FVR26TRXL8QqzcVw&pi=jpwKW66HTxSuK