Technology has largely made its way into classrooms as a tool for helping children learn. While critics may argue that technology is not being used effectively or is being used in place of standard educational methods, it cannot be denied that technology has the potential to benefit the learning experience. Despite the widespread use of technology in schools, one area of learning has been largely unaffected: music education.
From people outside of the profession, music education is often seen as a one-sided, individualistic system which lacks dynamic. Traditionally, music education programs focus on reading music, playing instruments, and choral. These focuses are usually taught with the “doing” method: the teacher demonstrates and the pupils mimic. While this method may be effective in the classroom, it is very ineffective outside of the classroom. Many students do not have access to musical instruments outside of school. Even if they do have their own instruments, they will not be able to have their practices analyzed for weaknesses and errors to be improved upon.
Starting back in the 1980s, some music educators have been making the case for incorporating technology in the learning process. While much has advanced in the realm of technology, the basic principles of technology have not changed. Computers still record and organize information. The internet still allows for the sharing of information and ideas.
The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) was the first major technology to make it into music education. The goal of MIDI was to enable communication between computers and musical instruments. Thanks to the MIDI system, there are digital versions of virtually all instruments, like electronic drums, keyboards, and even wind controllers. MIDI makes it much easier for music students to learn in the home environment because music “instruments” are much cheaper and can easily be controlled. For example, an electronic drum machine can be played silently without irritating people in the home or neighbors.
Today’s music educators need to get creative when it comes to utilizing technology in the classroom. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Take advantage of music notation software programs to help teach composition and editing
- Use digital audio programs to teach how to synthesize sounds and compose by ear and no notation
- Have students record themselves while practicing on their instruments. Use the recordings to review progress over time, locate strengths/weaknesses, and teach self-review
- There are many programs for teaching drills, scales, reading music, intervals, and so forth. This can take away the monotony of the learning process
- Have students review each other’s performances via webcam
- Assign music listening activities. An audio playback program can be used for presenting snippets of songs