Entry 5: Application of Content
Engagement in interdisciplinary lessons is my favorite way of applying music to to other relevant parts of student life. By engaging students in authentic learning experiences rather than simply presenting or lecturing new information, students walk away from class with a deeper understanding of the intended content of each lesson. Actively engaging students in the learning process is the primary step and foundation of effective teaching for all learning styles.
In music, learners are guided into and provided with the necessary tools and assistance to discover new concepts. I strongly believe that the key to engaging students in interdisciplinary lessons is to allow them to find the significance and importance of it for themselves and to build from there. One way I like to spark student interest is to provide them with outside resources to explore first. This can include a choice reading of a developmentally appropriate level, an interactive online experience, or live performance from an expert, among other options. Once this interest is initiated, each individual has their own purpose for learning more, their own why. From here, we begin to teach, we begin to build. Although each student has their own motive behind their learning, the common goal is to learn about the same thing together. Group collaboration and open communication is an essential part of the music classroom. This phase of learning is no different, as students work together to create music and discuss how they will achieve it.
Each artifact features interdisciplinary themes with integrating either group work, individual reflection, or technology. Making music relevant to other disciplines and interests has to happen before the content sticks with the learners.
In music, learners are guided into and provided with the necessary tools and assistance to discover new concepts. I strongly believe that the key to engaging students in interdisciplinary lessons is to allow them to find the significance and importance of it for themselves and to build from there. One way I like to spark student interest is to provide them with outside resources to explore first. This can include a choice reading of a developmentally appropriate level, an interactive online experience, or live performance from an expert, among other options. Once this interest is initiated, each individual has their own purpose for learning more, their own why. From here, we begin to teach, we begin to build. Although each student has their own motive behind their learning, the common goal is to learn about the same thing together. Group collaboration and open communication is an essential part of the music classroom. This phase of learning is no different, as students work together to create music and discuss how they will achieve it.
Each artifact features interdisciplinary themes with integrating either group work, individual reflection, or technology. Making music relevant to other disciplines and interests has to happen before the content sticks with the learners.