The Creative Thinking and Music Technology article shared many new lesson ideas that I had not considered before, separating this article from many others I have previously read. In particular, these ideas struck me:
- Showing students a full score. Although the author suggests using an overhead, here the application of SMARTboard technology is applicable, if such technology is available. I have encountered rehearsal spaces in new buildings where music educators were given SMARTboard technology and yet were not using the tool because they were unable to incorporate it in their rehearsal. Imagine how effective it would be to show students a full score to discuss texture and then be able to circle, highlight, etc. specific parts literally with your fingertips!
- Etude/Scale construction. The author's suggestion would work well for the private studio. In addition, this idea would be effective in an applied music pedagogy course. If students were to create a book of etudes to be used in their future teaching careers, in the process they would demonstrate both their ability to identify common challenges for musicians and their pedagogical knowledge in scaffolding students to success.
- Create musical toys. I have little to add about this idea, other than the desire to learn how to do this!
- Listening blogs. I believe this idea would be especially advantageous in a world music course. Musics of other cultures can be jarring to new listeners, often stimulating strong reactions from students. A listening blog would provide an appropriate outlet to discuss initial reactions to listening and through time demonstrate possible changes in listening preference.
Peter Webster is well known for his insights in both creativity and music technology. The ideas he presents in the Creative Thinking and Music Technology article are great "starters" for thinking about how these two areas can work together to generate new possibilities for students.
ReplyDeleteWhat about the Vermont MIDI Project do you perceive as extremely expensive? Are there ways elements of this project could be implemented at little to no expense?
Vanessa,
ReplyDeleteI agree that there are many ways that technology can be used for music education, and that the article, “Creative Thinking and Music Technology” highlighted some interesting ways to utilize technology in the music classroom. As you stated, I also think that it would be extremely useful to use technology to show a full score to students so that they have a better understanding of the music and so they are able to perform the music at a higher level. In addition, I believe a smart board to be an effective vehicle for accomplishing this task. The smart board, as you said, could create an interactive environment between the students and the material. I am not fortunate enough to have a smart board in my classroom; however, the choir teacher at my school has a smart board and uses it effectively. When I have seen the smart board used for music, the students have always enjoyed the lesson, completing activities such as watching the score, and playing music games. I also think that the idea of using technology, such as notation software to create worksheets and etudes, is an extremely valuable tool. The technology allows one to create an exercise tailored to his/her needs almost immediately. There just seem to be endless possibilities with technology, and it is interesting to continue to learn how technology can be utilized for music education.