Music Theory Pedagogy (410-0-1)

Instructors

Susan Piagentini
847/491-5704
RCMA 4-175, 70 Arts Circle Dr, Evanston, IL

Meeting Info

RCMA 1-176: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Many graduate students will inevitably serve as theory instructors as part of future positions upon graduation from Northwestern. The practicum will provide first-hand experience in the implementation and design of an undergraduate theory curriculum and the development of lesson plans and materials. (Although you will experience some review as you observe classes, it is not a replacement for an upper-level theory analysis course.)

Students may also consider the concepts presented in this course as inspiration for the inclusion of theoretical concepts in other professional endeavors such as studio teaching, teaching in other disciplines, coaching, and conducting.

Registration Requirements

graduate student (MM, DM, PhD in Music)

Learning Objectives

• practice and refine teaching skills through model teaching exercises and observations;
• become acquainted with trends in the teaching of music theory/aural skills on the college level;
• develop a clear plan for creating lesson plans, materials, and syllabi to support a college level course.

Teaching Method

• weekly topics: exploring trends in the field & course design
• discussion of weekly readings
• informal practice teaching exercises

Evaluation Method

• Weekly observation of core undergraduate courses (1/week = 8 total; weeks 2-9)
• One online journal entry post per week summarizing response to a weekly topic prompt & weekly core classroom observation (weeks 1-3 and 5-9) Weekly observation of core undergraduate courses (1/week = 8 total; weeks 2-9)
• Textbook review and presentation (3)
• Designing course materials (classroom activity handouts, assignments)
• Final Curriculum Essay/Syllabus Project

Class Materials (Required)

none