elementary general music


Elevating Elementary Music Education Through Technology


Jody Sturmer, WMEA State Chair, Elementary General Music


Technology has be- come deeply rooted into our lives and a considerable part of education, thus giv- ing us tools and re- sources to enhance classroom learning experiences. When you think of tech-


nology in the classroom, does music educa- tion come to mind? When I was a student, music class consisted of each student grabbing their music book and singing out of it for the whole class. Technology has become more embedded in today’s music classrooms, creating new opportunities to transform them into places of creativity and musical exploration, especially in a nonconventional way. From the use of smart boards, websites and apps to video recording performances, there are a mul- titude of ways to incorporate technology into enriching classroom music instruction.


Smart Boards: Visualizing Musical Concepts


Smart boards are invaluable tools in the elementary music classroom. While there may be occasional frustrations, their bene- fits are undeniable. I rely on my smart board to display music lessons, eliminating dis- tractions associated with traditional books and increasing engagement. This visual aid helps students grasp musical concepts more effectively. Students can write on the music, showing they understand the skills of the lesson. I also use my smart board


for interactive assessments, even though many students may see them as games. I have assessments for high/low, fast/slow, loud/quiet and many others. Also, I’ve used my smart board to teach the instruments within an orchestra. Additionally, many digital music curricula, such as Quaver and MusicPlay, require smart boards for optimal use, emphasizing their importance in modern music education.


Educational Apps: Engaging Interactive Learning


Educational apps have become essential tools for supplemental classroom instruc- tion and reinforcing learning objectives. Many apps incorporate engaging games that make learning fun while remaining educational. Music apps provide valuable opportunities for skill development. For example, the Staff Wars app has proven effective in my classroom by enhancing note-recognition skills. Student fluency increased, and it transferred to them being able to apply their knowledge and use it on instruments such as the recorder.


Websites


A website that has been beneficial in my classroom is Chrome Music Lab, which allows students to learn about the seven elements of music. Students can also ex- periment with composition easily, fostering a sense of accomplishment and musical ability. Students can feel successful in cre- ating music with this website. A resource such as this empowers students to continue their musical exploration outside of school.


“Technology has become more embedded in today’s music


classrooms, creating new opportunities to transform music


classrooms into places of creativity and musical exploration…”


Video Recorders: Playback for Personal Growth


Recording performances is a handy tool for self-assessment and reflection in the ele- mentary music classroom. Self-assessment is beneficial for students’ growth and devel- opment as musicians. By having students watch their performances, they can identify areas that need improvement and recognize areas of strength. Watching themselves perform enhances self-awareness and own- ership, thus motivating students to strive for excellence, growth and celebration.


WMEA Service Awards


Learn more, and make your nominations today


at wmeamusic.org/awards. 26


Technology can be beneficial in helping aid today’s elementary music education. It can provide tools and resources to cre- ate better learning experiences. Although, there is a need for a healthy balance while still giving students a whole body and mind experience with music by playing, moving, reading, listening and singing. Embracing technology can help foster creativity, skill development and a lifelong appreciation for music.


Jody Sturmer is the K–5 elementary music teacher at Winskill Elementary in Lancaster.


Email: sturmerj@lancastersd.k12.wi.us April 2024


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