Using the MOGCLASS in Group Music Therapy With Individuals With Muscular Dystrophy: A Pilot Study

Resumen

This pilot study aims to survey muscular dystrophy (MD) clients’ perception of enjoyment, motivation, and success during music therapy group sessions with the use of music assistive technology, Musical mObile Group for Classroom Learning And Study in Schools (MOGCLASS). Convenience sampling was used to recruit a total of 7 participants with MD and progressive muscle weakness. The study design comprised 3 sessions using acoustic musical instruments, followed by 3 sessions using MOGCLASS. Sessions were conducted by a board-certified music therapist. All other variables (eg, venue, session plans) were controlled throughout the study. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of varaince test. MOGCLASS achieved higher perceived enjoyment, success, and motivation, though the difference was not statistically significant, possibly due to the small sample size. Music therapy is appropriate and enjoyable for clients with MD. There is a great need for music therapy research for clients with MD, with emphasis on the use of assistive technology.