MTEC6706

Computer Assisted Instruction in Music

Faculty of Education and Arts School of Creative Arts

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Available in 2013

WebLearn GradSchool	Trimester 3

Previously offered in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

This course examines computer software technology designed to support the teaching and learning of music. Commercial instructional software packages are critically analysed to determine a number of factors which may include the level and usage of musical content, approaches to teaching music, technical functionality, effectiveness at teaching music and structure. Knowledge gained from this study is put into practice when students design their own instructional project within pre-defined guidelines. The course culminates in students constructing a music software package (or components thereof) and present it as a music teaching and learning resource. (Students will be required to have access to specified software in order to complete assessment tasks.)

Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be expected to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehension of instructional approaches utilised in computer software as employed for the instruction of music
2. Demonstrate an awareness of the applications and ramifications of computer aided musical instruction
3. Have an advanced conceptualisation of construction methods as utilised in computer aided instruction software
4. Be able to design a specialised instructional music program
5. Demonstrate the ability to use email, access web-based resources and to participate in electronic discussion groups

Content

Topics may include (but are not limited to):

- Electronic musical instructional applications
- Approaches to instructional software applications
- Resources used for the delivery and teaching of music electronically
- Constructional designs of instructional music software

Additional study areas may include the limitations and ramifications of computer aided instruction software.

Replacing Course(s)

This course replaces no existing courses. No courses offered within the University provides a similar focus on Music Technology applications at postgraduate level. This course will have no impact on other Faculties or Schools.

Transition

This course requires no transitional arrangements.

Industrial Experience

Assumed Knowledge

Students undertaking this course are required to have minimum levels of computer literacy and musical ability as necessary for entry into the Master of Music Technology and Graduate Certificate in Music Technology programs. No additional assumed knowledge is required. (Further details of the levels expected are available from the program convener.)

Modes of Delivery

Distance Learning : IT Based
External Mode
Flexible Delivery / Student Centred Learning

Teaching Methods

Email Discussion Group
Integrated Learning
Self Directed Learning

Assessment Items

Essays / Written Assignments	Assessment Item #1 (30% of total assessment) - This task requires the student to critically examine professionally produced computer assisted instructional music software. This may include (but is not limited to) investigations into the areas of drill and practice, flexible practice, guided instruction, learning games and/or exploratory software. Students may also be required to undertake practical tasks using instructional music software.
Essays / Written Assignments	Assessment Item #2 (30% of total assessment) - Students will practically experience selected music software designed for the purposes of aiding music instruction. This may include (but is not limited to) the areas of music composition, music improvisation and/or music accompaniment. They will be required to assess software for specific features and provide a written report of their investigations. They may also be required to design an instructional music software project and commence creation of musical content.
Group/tutorial participation and contribution	Assessment Item #4 (10% of total assessment) - Students will need to provide evidence of online class participation and activities from throughout the duration of the trimester. The summary should include evidence about the frequency, content and relevancy of their online contributions. This may include information from discussion forms, virtual chats sessions, email communication, etc.
Other: (please specify)	Assessment Item #3 (30% of total assessment) - Students will draw on topics from throughout the course and realise their own music-related instructional software package (or part thereof). This will be constructed within specified guidelines of content/approach and will demonstrate the students understanding of the topic, their technical aptitude and creative ability. The project will be presented in an appropriate electronic format.

Contact Hours

Email Discussion Group: for 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term

Timetables