Drumming beneficial for schoolchildren diagnosed with autism

A new study published in the International Journal of Developmental Disabilities finds that drumming for 60 minutes in a week might be beneficial for schoolchildren diagnosed with autism and also supports learning at school.

Marcus Smith, a Reader in Sport and Exercise Physiology at the University of Chichester, and colleagues conducted the study to determine the benefits of drumming for children with emotional and behavioral difficulties (EBD) such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

The project showed students' ability to follow their teachers' instructions improved significantly and enhanced their social interactions with peers and members of school staff.

"This is a unique and remarkable research project that has demonstrated the positive impact on a pupil's health and wellbeing following rock drumming practice. Rock drumming as a potent intervention for individuals experiencing brain disorders, such as autism, is fascinating and I am delighted that it builds upon the pioneering work undertaken by colleagues from the Clem Burke Drumming Project," said Dr. Smith.

The research involved pupils from Milestone School in Gloucester who took part in a ten-week drumming programme comprising two 30-minute sessions each week. Observations of the weekly lessons also highlighted significant improvements in dexterity, rhythm, and timing.

The investigation is a continuation of research undertaken by the academics, known collectively as the Clem Burke Drumming Project that includes the iconic Blondie drummer, and is aimed at demonstrating the value of the musical instrument to school pupils requiring additional education support.

Class teachers evaluated behavioral changes within the classroom across the ten-week drumming intervention, with preliminary evidence highlighting positive outcomes. Each lesson was delivered by drumming tutors using electronic drum kits provided by charities in Gloucestershire.

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Key Findings:

• A vast improvement in movement control while playing the drums, including dexterity, rhythm, timing.


• Movement control was also enhanced while performing daily tasks outside the school environment, including an improved ability to concentrate during homework.


• A range of positive changes in behavior within the school environment, which were observed and reported by teachers, such as improved concentration and enhanced communication with peers and adults.

The focus of the sessions, held at an agriculture classroom at Hartpury, was on learning and having fun while playing to popular songs. An in-depth explanation of key findings related to changes in social, behavioral, and motor control will be reported following the completion of on-going data analysis.

Dr. Steve Draper, Dean Research and Knowledge Exchange, Hartpury, added: "Drumming has a unique blend of physical activity, coordination, and musicality, all of which are known to be beneficial to well-being. It has been amazing to watch the children thrive and develop to this challenge. Drumming has the potential to positively impact a wide range of people."

Dr. Ruth Lowry, a Reader in the Psychology of Active Living at the University of Chichester, said "The opportunity to see this group of children progress and develop through developing skills in music is powerful. We hope that this project will provide further evidence that not only does rock drumming have positive benefits in terms of changes in dexterity and concentration but that wider social and behavioral conduct benefits can also be observed."

For further reference log on to https://doi.org/10.1080/20473869.2018.1429041