Current Issues in Music Education – MUSC 840

CG • Section 8WK • 07/01/2018 to 12/31/2199 • Modified 09/05/2023

Course Description

Study of current issues influencing the state of music education in schools. Focus on the interpretation, implementation, and development of policy. Topics include public policy, advocacy, diversity, exceptional students, behavior management, teacher evaluation, and curriculum.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Rationale

Each music educator must analyze current issues influencing music education in schools. Music educators must apply knowledge from various areas, including sociological and philosophical elements, identifying program characteristics, student learning, exceptional students, teacher education, professional development, and research.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the candidate will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to create a thread in response to the provided prompt for each discussion. Each thread must meet the required word count (350) and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to at least 2 other classmates' threads. Each reply must meet the required word count (150). Please cite outside sources referenced in Discussions in Turabian format.

Students completed one contributing component of the Final Report: Written Narrative Assignment in each of the first four modules. Now, Students create a 4–5-minute video to present findings and share with the class. Students further review the video presentations of two peers and provide constructive comments and feedback in 200 words.

Students must complete one contributing component of the Final Report: Written Narrative Assignment in four separate assignments: 

Final Report: Topic Selection and Description Assignment

Select a current issues topic to explore and discuss after reflecting on the assigned readings and watch items from the first module. This assignment should be 2-3 pages.

Final Report: Annotated Bibliography Assignment

Research the selected current issues topic to find related studies, professional journals, trade journals, popular magazines, news stories, and interviews to review and annotate.  

Final Report: Interview Assignment

Interview three teachers or administrators with significant experience related to the chosen current issues topic with 6-8 questions.

Final Report: Written Narrative Assignment

Compose a discussion of findings by applying narrative inquiry to describe the chosen topic while considering events, stories, interviews, and existing research to identify themes and history behind the story of the topic. This assignment should be 1250-1500 words.

Students explore three professional association websites to identify available resources and opportunities for professional development and support beyond annual conferences. Mentoring programs, online communities, journals, micro-credentials, and supplemental professional development options are possible resources and opportunities. This assignment should be 4-5 pages.

Students research and respond to six questions to reveal essential findings and conclusions to support effective content and student experiences in music teacher education. This assignment should be 5-6 pages.