How can I utilize technology to design formative and summative
assessments for my music ensembles?
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| ISTE Standard 2 |
Assessment in music ensemble classes looks very different than assessment in science, math, or english classes. Due to the performance nature of ensemble classes, assessments often focus on applying skills and techniques during performance rather than taking tests, experimenting in a lab, or writing essays. This said, technology can open up a whole new world of possibilities for formative and summative assessment in the music classroom.
VoiceThread, Google Docs/Slides, Vlogs, Blogs, and SmartMusic are a few of the resources I am excited to use for assessment purposes in my classroom. These programs and tools allow students the opportunity to collaborate while using technology, aiding in deliberate decisions and establishing effective problem solving strategies (Cicconi, 2013). Not only can teachers assess skills, content knowledge, and student progress by using these programs, but they also give students a chance to practice interpersonal communication and leadership skills through collaboration. Cicconi (2013) believes "technology leads to a culture of social learning by empowering students of all abilities to take on the MKO (more knowledgable other) role." This social learning environment engages and motivates students to contribute their interests and ideas openly during assessment. Hence, it is appropriate to utilize these collaborative technology resources as formative and summative assessment tools in the music classroom.
Hi Lynnea,
ReplyDeleteI was really struck by the difference you highlighted between assessing classes like science and music classes. It certainly sounds as though technology can be used very effectively in a music class!
The SmartMusic program sounds very interesting. I remember occasionally having to record tapes for assessment in orchestra throughout school. It was frustrating at times. I don't think I could have imagined a better way to complete such a task back then, but the many possibilities available with the SmartMusic program (not only for assessment ease) would certainly have been desirable to recording test pieces on tapes (...SO many tapes for the director to listen to and grade!)
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