Essay, Research Paper: Model Learning Environment

Although resources are not the most important part of education, there are several components that help to develop an environment in which music flourishes. Like any other classroom, a music classroom should be equipped with basics such as a chalkboard and desks. The best chalkboards include sections that are lined with the lines of a musical staff. It is also desirable to have a room large enough to allow activities that include movement. It is important that the teacher has access to instruments to be used in teaching. It is standard teaching procedure that general music students learn to play the recorder in the fourth grade. In order to complete this lesson, the teacher must be able to equip each student with a quality recorder to use for the duration of the lesson. It is not favorable to share instruments because valuable time is wasted in changing mouthpieces and sanitizing the recorder.
Orff methodology, a popular technique for teaching music to children, is based on the use of “Orff instruments.” These instruments are typically types of barred percussion instruments like the xylophone. This methodology is highly effective because it produces quick results, but the classroom must be equipped with the appropriate Orff instruments in order for the exercises to be successful. In recent years, technological advances have made it easier for young music students to create their own compositions using Orff methodology and computer notation software such as “Encore.” With the resources provided by a classroom computer, students are able to create a melody using a MIDI keyboard and the notation software will translate the melody into sheet music.
An ideal learning environment includes all of these elements. The spacious classroom pictured has a variety of instruments including a full family of recorders (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) as well as a variety of Orff instruments. The classroom computer and MIDI keyboard create a “composition corner” in which the students can create their own songs. The teacher is able to share these works off the computer with the class with the use of a LCD panel. This classroom is an environment in which the students have every opportunity to learn about music in a “hands-on” type fashion.


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