Music education for children with autism in Malaysia

The purpose of this study is to enhance our understanding of the effects of teaching group music to 5 children with autism. An action research methodology was adopted using the action cycles of plan-act-observe-reflect design. A cross-case analysis showed that group music teaching was generally effective in improving verbal and non verbal communication, and the demonstration of both positive motor skill development as well as negative motor reactions among the subjects. Although the outcome for social behaviours was minimal, three of the subjects showed reciprocal social spirit and outward expressive behaviour in the musical games.