Research Updates

Here at Bigger Better Brains we believe that through educating yourself, you can then educate and affect positive change in your community.

 

With all of the research in the field of neuromusical science, our BBB Research section serves as a content hub for you. We regularly share findings and break down the latest research to educate and inspire discussion. We hope you enjoy this page on our website and share BBB news with your colleagues, parents and students.

Productivity, Advocacy, Communication Anita Collins Productivity, Advocacy, Communication Anita Collins

Stealth Advocacy is The Quiet Power of Repeating Your Message

This blog explores the quiet power of Stealth Advocacy, subtle, repeated messages that shape how others see music education. From hallway posters to one-liners in newsletters, these small signals work in the background, shifting mindsets over time. If you’re too busy to launch a campaign, this is the kind of advocacy that speaks for you, even when you’re not in the room.

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Advocacy, Listening, Communication Anita Collins Advocacy, Listening, Communication Anita Collins

Advocacy starts with the student

In our drive to advocate for music education, it’s easy to focus on public performances, programs, or policies. But real advocacy often begins in quiet moments with students, their stories, and their shifting motivations. This blog explores how listening, noticing, and building trust can turn everyday teaching into powerful, student-centered advocacy.

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Advocacy, Communication, Music Learning Anita Collins Advocacy, Communication, Music Learning Anita Collins

How Can We Make Music Advocacy a Daily Habit, Not Just an Event?

What if music advocacy wasn’t an event, but a habit?
In the bustle of rehearsals, lessons, and emails, advocacy often gets pushed to the margins. But what if we made it part of our everyday teaching language? This post shares four simple ways to weave music advocacy into daily practice, from quick phrases and bold visuals to shared reflections with colleagues. Small actions, repeated often, can shift how music learning is seen and valued.

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Dyslexia, Autism & ADHD, Productivity Anita Collins Dyslexia, Autism & ADHD, Productivity Anita Collins

Can the right music help students with ADHD focus better?

We often assume background music helps students concentrate—but new research suggests it’s not one-size-fits-all, especially for learners with ADHD. This study explores how different sounds—classical, preferred music, binaural beats, and medication—affect focus. The takeaway? Familiar, enjoyable music may support attention better than trendy brain hacks. What could this mean for your classroom or studio?

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How Music Learning Supports Sound Processing in Neurodivergent Learners

What if music could help neurodivergent students focus, listen, and communicate more easily? Music learning strengthens how the brain processes sound, supports attention and memory, and helps students filter speech in noisy settings. For learners with ADHD, autism, or sensory challenges, it offers a structured, motivating way to build essential skills.

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Music Learning, Productivity Anita Collins Music Learning, Productivity Anita Collins

Don’t Let the Break Break the Habit: Holiday Music Learning Strategies

Holidays don’t have to mean a full stop to music learning. This blog explores how short, simple strategies—like mental practice, travel-friendly plans, and encouraging messages—can help students stay connected over the break. Plus, find tools and inspiration to support motivation and communication all season long.

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Advocacy Anita Collins Advocacy Anita Collins

Show them who they can be

The “Wanna Be Like…” poster series helps music teachers show students how learning an instrument connects to success beyond the music room. This blog introduces the series, invites teachers to contribute new role models, and offers a free download of five brand-new posters.

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