Pedagogy of Music Theory

Course Description

Survey of philosophies, curricula, course content, and teaching approaches for undergraduate courses in music theory and aural skills. Students will evaluate instructional materials, observe and evaluate the teaching of others, and undertake their own teaching demonstrations. Prerequisite: Passing score on graduate theory diagnostic exam or permission of the instructor.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Describe current teaching approaches in music theory pedagogy.
  • Demonstrate teaching proficiency in typical music theory topics.
  • Create a written teaching philosophy that incorporates current trends in music theory pedagogy.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Class discussions and 10-minute teaching demos 40%
Music theory (written and aural skills) teaching philosophy statement 15%
Two UNCG undergraduate class observations with written summaries/assessments 7.5% each = 15%
One “formal” teaching demonstration in a UNCG theory or aural skills class, with a lesson plan, dress rehearsal, and written self-evaluation 15%
One “formal” teaching demonstration in our class 15%

Attendance/Participation:

Attendance/participation is not a graded component included in the student's final grade for this course.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

No course materials are required.

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.