Here are the basics that you need to begin using more technology in your classroom:
• A computer, preferably with a CD burner. This can be a Mac or PC, and can either be a desktop or laptop. Most computers, if they have been purchased over the last five years, will have the necessary ports, such as USB, audio in and out, and video out built in. These ports will allow you to connect the computer to other essential components in the setup.
• A MIDI-compatible electronic keyboard. An electronic keyboard will give you the ability to easily in- put music into a sequencing, notation, or computer-assisted instruction program. Most electronic keyboards today are MIDI compatible, and some can connect directly to the computer via a USB ca- ble. If the MIDI keyboard does not have a built-in MIDI interface, you will need an external MIDI inter- face in order to connect the keyboard to the computer.
• An LCD projector. It is important to have a way to show what is on the computer to the students. Having students huddle around a computer monitor can cause unnecessary classroom management issues. While it is preferable to have a dedicated LCD projector in the music classroom, most schools use projectors for meeting presentations and staff development and are often available to teachers for classroom use. If an LCD projector is not available, another option for projecting the computer is to use a television. All that is needed to connect a computer to a television is an inexpensive VGA-to- component RGB (TV) adapter. The image quality of a television is inferior to an LCD projector, but it certainly is a viable option.
• A set of speakers. With the correct cables you can connect your computer directly into the stereo or other sound system you have in your music room. If possible, though, it is best to get a pair of small, powered monitor speakers. A good pair of monitors will ensure a high-quality listening experience for your students. There are plenty of models to choose from on the market that are both cost-effective and high fidelity.
• A microphone. Hooking up a microphone to a computer to create digital recordings is a powerful way to record student performances. If your computer has a built-in microphone recording couldn’t be easier! If your computer has an audio-in port, it is possible to plug a microphone directly into the computer using an XLR-to-mini-1/8’ adapter. If your computer doesn’t have an audio in port, or you want to make high-quality digital recordings, you will need to have a digital audio interface. While there are many digital audio interfaces on the market, there are two basic types of connections a digi- tal audio interface can make with a computer: USB or FireWire. The main difference between USB and FireWire lies in the type of cable that is used to make the connection, and how fast the data travels through the cable. The type of digital audio interface you can use will depend on the available ports on your computer.
• Software. There are many categories of software that are useful in the music classroom: technology- assisted learning software, notation, MIDI and digital audio sequencing (also known as DAW soft- ware), productivity tools such as Microsoft Office, graphics and video editing tools, and web author- ing tools. The kinds of software you use in the classroom will be determined by your curricular goals. (Langol, 2006)
Regardless of how you feel about utilizing technology in the classroom, the level of student engagement is very evident. Every student is on the same page – literally! – and the rewards are great. All students are en- gaged and meeting standards. Simple tools, small budget and “green” as well. 21st Century Learning at its best.
Stefani Langol, “Get Started With One Computer! Music Technology in the Classroom - ArtistshouseMusic,” Blog, Artistshouse Music, July 23, 2006,
http://www.artistshousemusic.org/articles/get+started+with+one+computer+music+technology+in+the+classroom.
Barbara Balch Packales teaches Elementary Music and provides Instructional Resource Technology at Fred A. Olds Elementary School in Raleigh, NC. She is the Technology Chair for the North Carolina Music Educators Association and is on the board of TI:ME – NC Chapter.
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