The key research problem of this master's thesis is the investigation of the impact of participation in youth opera on adolescents' social and emotional learning. The aim of the study was to explore which social and emotional learning competencies adolescents develop through participation in youth opera and how these competencies are developed. The study also sought to identify the benefits adolescents gain from such participation and to examine whether differences in social and emotional learning exist between soloists and members of the youth choir.
The theoretical part of the thesis first defines and presents the period of adolescence. This is followed by a definition of social and emotional learning, together with an overview of its key characteristics and benefits. Social and emotional learning is also situated within various educational and life contexts, while some limitations associated with this approach are highlighted. The final chapter presents youth opera, its development, and collaborative youth opera projects. Previous research on the impact of participation in youth opera on adolescents' social and emotional learning is also reviewed.
A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted in focus groups and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. The study included 17 participants, consisting of 15 girls and 2 boys. Participants were adolescents aged 9 to 16 who took part in the youth opera project Kekec and the Dwarf Skovik. The research focused primarily on the social and emotional dimensions of their experience of participation.
The results showed that participation in youth opera fosters the development of all five social and emotional learning competencies in adolescents. Participants reported increased self-confidence, positive social experiences, musical development, and motivation for further musical engagement. Soloists emphasized autonomy, whereas choir members highlighted teamwork, group support, and a sense of connectedness.
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