The Art of Teaching Middle Level According to the Kodaly Concept

Catalog description

Designed as the study of music and the learning process at the middle level (Grades 4-8), this graduate course helps prepare students for a career in music education with a focus on middle level learners. Emphasis will be placed on basic teaching and performing skills related to classroom teaching using the Kodály Methodology, related instrumental techniques, designing professional development, observing teaching in a supervisory role, and designing curriculum which integrates the choral and instrumental classroom. The class has both a practical and philosophical basis. We will examine the major paradigms and processes of music education and learn the Kodály approach to teaching music literacy as well as discover suitable music materials for middle level learners. We will discuss current methodologies associated with teaching and the psychology of music; we will practice teaching techniques associated with Kodály for the middle level classroom and choir. Students will be enhancing their skills on guitar and in addition to identifying websites or apps which can enhance instruction at the middle school level. Our focus will be on educating for the multiple dimensions of musicianship: Students as Performers, Students as Stewards of their Cultural Heritage, Students as Critical Thinkers, Students as Creative Human Beings and Students as Active Listeners. The course requires field observation and teaching experiences in upper elementary and middle school.