Hi Joyce.

I think this is a tremendous idea, and can only say how much I would personally encourage such an approach.

I believe there is a very strong connection between values and the arts in general. Consider that as a teacher I may use Bloom's taxonmy to address all relevant aspects of a student's learning: cognitive, affective and physical.

First off, values can be discussed, but this is invarioably a cognitive exercise, with little engagment among the de-motivated. However, the use of the physical (like singing, or banging a drum) and affective (connecting to concepts and movements with feelings) can be very powerful in learning.

Second, music lends itself quite naturally to engagement. At the most fundamental and perhaps easiest level, drumming comes to mind. Expressing emotions for example through drumming, together in group, and then relating this to the conceptual aspect of values would certainly benefit all. The group dynamic is very powerful once engaged, and I belevie the approrptiate type of musical engagement could achieve exactly what you wish for.

If it is any help, I was a drama and performing arts teacher for many years, and certainly appreciate the power of the arts in moving learning into the affective domain.

I hope this helps and good luck!

Alex

Dear Alexander, thanks so much for supporting my idea. Yes I thought of physical and affective aspects of learning through Music. We at our Community Health Department have a unit set up for 'Communication for Social & Health Issues'. There is a drama (Nukkad Natak) and performing arts person there. There are two others with him. So I am depending on them to use songs which will touch the inner core of the audience. These songs will be on 'God', 'Mother' and 'Nation' and other such topics.

Thanks for encouraging me.