An Investigation into the Effect of Programme Music on Attention and Working Memory

Feeley, Chloe (2017) An Investigation into the Effect of Programme Music on Attention and Working Memory. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

Preview

PDF (Bachelor of Arts) Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract

The present study investigated the effects of programme music on attention and working memory, employing the use of both a modern instrumental music and no-music control. Previous research has established a positive association between music and increased performance on cognitively demanding tasks. The current sample (N=25) consisted of 11 males and 14 females, with ages ranging from 18-29. A between-groups, experimental design was employed, which featured three separate conditions, which were classified by the independent variable, which was type of music (programme, modern or no-music). Working memory was measured by the n-back, whilst attention was measured using The Continuous Performance Test. Results indicate that there was no significant difference in performance between groups on either of the dependent variables of attention and working memory, not supporting the hypotheses. A main effect was detected for inter-stimulus intervals on impulsivity, however the differences in impulsivity levels between the millisecond intervals were only slight. The effects of impulsivity and musical training on results were investigated in an exploratory manner. Implications of the current study and future recommendations are discussed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology M Music and Books on Music > M Music B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology > Cognitive psychology
Divisions:	School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Caoimhe Ní Mhaicín
Date Deposited:	08 Nov 2017 11:35
Last Modified:	08 Nov 2017 11:35
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/2775

Actions (login required)

View Item