Music Theory Classroom

I have been thinking a lot about how I will be able to integrate technology into my music classroom, and while I have been having a hard time coming up with viable ideas, I know that I will be able to use multiple forms of technology when teaching music theory classes. The traditional method of teaching the basics of music theory via chalk and chalkboard can easily be replaced with a smart board and some music writing software. Both of the programs Finale and Sibelius are great music writing tools, and I could definitely use them to show how music is written. While it may seem that using this technology for something so simple is a bit more than necessary, it also gives students the opportunity to hear what they are learning. The ability to hear the music that you learn about is key to keeping the concepts in the minds of students. 

Thinking About PLAY ...

As I have gone through this course, I have thought (obviously) a lot about technology. I have seen many positive things that teachers and students can do with technology and have discovered ways that I never knew I would be able to use it for my own benefit. This post was prompted by the survey that Michelle asked us to take to review the PLAY website for the IA#5 REMIX. I like that even though we are having to use the technology in new ways, we are also able to critique it so that it can be better for us to use in the future. If I were to use PLAY in my own teaching, I do think that I would also offer a survey after the unit to ensure that my students are getting what they need through this form of technology. Normally I wouldn't inquire about these things, but since I would be using websites not used during the class, and the information would be conveyed differently I would like to know what worked and what didn't. Just because the resources work for me doesn't mean that they will necessarily be understandable to students.

Canvas Remix!

I really enjoyed this week's assignment because it isn't every day that music can be coordinated with another subject area. Color and sound are two subjects that are very closely related, and the science behind it helps even the most non-artistic person able to comprehend the way music and art can make someone feel. 

For my content area, I added some videos and link regarding the connection between sounds and color. I also used many of the pictures and videos that I used in my original canvas. These elements allow the learner understand each side of the lesson respectively and then help them to piece them together. The only element that I took away from the original canvas was the picture of two shades of purple and the description that went with it, because while it was a good example of the color portion of the lesson, it was the only element that didn't translate to my side of it. I think that if there had been examples of other colors as well, I may have been able to incorporate it. Instead, I replaced it with some pictures which show how color and pitch are connected. 

I hope that I have the opportunity to use this unit in my own teaching!

Unit Plan Canvas

I must say that this has been my favorite interactivity yet. When first thinking about creating a canvas, I was incredibly nervous because Michelle insisted that we go to an information session. This made me think that it was going to be an almost impossible task, but I had a lot of fun putting the visuals together.

The canvas gives a teacher the opportunity to show their students where and what to look for on the web. Often times students need help with the unit they are working on and will use Google to locate information, which can be inaccurate. By creating a canvas, we can guide our students to the right sources for the information. 

I can definitely see myself using this website in the future with my students. Music concepts and lessons can be difficult to find additional sources for unless you know exactly what you are looking for, so constructing these canvases will be helpful.

Here's a link to my canvas:

http://www.play.annenberginnovationlab.org/play2.0/challenge.php?idChallenge=2413&mode=view#network6