Inclusive Music Education in the Digital Age: The Role of Technology and Edugames in Supporting Students with Special Educational Needs

Inclusive music education refers to the use of musical experiences and practices as tools for promoting participation, equity, and meaningful engagement among all learners, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Music education has long been recognized not only for its value in emotional expression and cultural transmission but also for its cognitive and relational benefits. This entry examines the inclusive and transformative potential of music, highlighting how it can foster equitable, accessible, and culturally relevant learning environments. Drawing from pedagogy, neuroscience, and educational technology, the entry explores how music contributes to cognitive, emotional, and social development, with a focus on learners with SEN. It emphasizes the importance of early exposure to music, the strong connections between music and language acquisition, and the need to challenge persistent misconceptions about innate musical talent. The findings demonstrate that when supported by digital tools and educational games, music education becomes a powerful driver of inclusion, enhancing participation, relational dynamics, and cognitive engagement. The entry concludes by advocating for a reimagining of music not as a secondary subject, but as a foundational component of holistic and inclusive education, capable of building more empathetic, connected, and equitable societies.