Harmonising Music and Language: Insights into Children’s Language Development from Influential Research
Keywords:
Music-based intervention; language development; children’s literacy; auditory processing; early language learningAbstract
Music has increasingly been recognised as a meaningful contributor to children’s language development, due to shared cognitive and auditory mechanisms between music and language processing. However, existing research remains conceptually fragmented across disciplines. This study aims to synthesise influential scholarship and identify strategic research directions in music-enhanced language development. A dual analytical design combining bibliometric performance analysis and SWOT analysis was employed. Using the Scopus database, 224 studies published between 2021 and 2025 were identified, from which the ten most cited articles were analysed in depth. Findings indicate that dominant research emphasises auditory processing, rhythm sensitivity, and working memory as foundations supporting grammar acquisition and reading fluency. The SWOT analysis reveals strong theoretical grounding and methodological diversity alongside limitations related to indirect language measurements and limited classroom validation. Emerging opportunities include digital and hybrid learning models, while challenges involve curriculum constraints and equity issues. The study contributes a strategic roadmap for future research and pedagogical implementation. Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4, the findings highlight music’s potential to support inclusive and effective language learning across diverse educational contexts.
https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.25.4.42
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