Interactivity #4: The Pedagogical Uses of Technology

Here is a link to my lesson plan map:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AifGVliPVd2bdG1vRG1CdjdxMUJUUkJhd3V1RnB6Wnc - gid=0

            I chose this lesson plan for several reasons. First of all, it revolves around composition, which I feel is an extremely important aspect of all arts. As musicians, we spend much of our lives practicing, performing, and even analyzing others’ music. When we are given the chance to write our own music, a whole new creative aspect comes into play. I also chose this lesson because it utilizes other disciplines. For example, the first part of the lesson involves conducting research and writing a brief report on a famous musician, thus crossing over into the discipline of English. Last but certainly not least, I really appreciate the fact that this lesson plan is almost entirely student-centered. Throughout the lesson, the students pick their own goals as well as how to go about accomplishing them.

            I do not see any gaps between the teaching strategies and technologies used in this lesson. The first technology required is an internet connection, which the students directly use to conduct research on a musician of their choice. The students then use computers with a multi-track digital audio software to record themselves. Lastly, they use CDs to obtain tracks created by their musicians of choice as well as headphones to help them better hear their works in progress. The only gap between the curriculum goals and teaching strategies is that I think the lesson should involve more group work and critique. The technologies used are completely essential to achieving the goals of the lesson, as each technology has a specifically designated use within the lesson (as described above). The use of the headphones is not explained, but I think that this technology’s purpose within the lesson needs no explanation.