Hongjuan Zhu

Hongjuan is a PhD student sponsored by Sheffield Hallam University. Her research explores the impact of microsystem factors on young people’s music learning and flourishing, drawing on ecological and sociocultural perspectives to examine how immediate environments influence learners’ experiences. The project aims to develop an innovative methodological framework, Microsystem Influence Mapping, which captures the complexity and dynamic nature of these everyday influences across two key dimensions: the intensity of influence (from high to low) and the valence of influence (from positive to negative), while also considering both current and past music learning experiences. Through this approach, the study seeks to understand how microsystem factors support or hinder young people’s flourishing within music learning contexts. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how meaningful music learning experiences can promote well-being, lifelong engagement with the arts, and more inclusive and responsive practices among educators, policymakers, and community music practitioners.