Designer
From "The ISTE Standards" (2018):
Teachers design authentic, learner-driven activities and environments that recognize and accommodate learner variability.
2.5.a. Use technology to create, adapt, and personalize learning experiences that foster independent learning and accommodate learner differences and needs.
In the TE 886 course, I created a multi-day "flipped" songwriting unit that allowed students to use their strengths and interests to write an original song. This unit plan leveraged engaging videos, interactive websites that allowed students to analyze existing music, and GarageBand tutorials and starter files to support students in their independent and personalized learning experience. Click below to view the components of the plan.
2.5.b. Design authentic learning activities that align with content area standards and use digital tools and resources to maximize active, deep learning.
In the TE 877 course, I created a detailed WebQuest that introduced students to the elements of music. The WebQuest format allowed me to think about what I really wanted students to be able to accomplish when working with the elements of music: namely that they could synthesize their knowledge the same way that actual composers do and create a musical artifact that itself contains each of the elements. To make the content engaging, I themed the WebQuest around the Super Mario character, and co-opted an online emulator for the classic Super Nintendo game "Mario Paint" that allowed players to compose real music with their controller. With a modern computer, students can now use this same game to incorporate each of the elements of music into a short composition. Click below to view more information about this WebQuest along with a link to the activity.
2.5.c. Explore and apply instructional design principles to create innovative digital learning environments that engage and support learning.
In the TE 877 course, I spent many hours constructing a web-based educational environment that supported students in their achievement of learning targets related to music history and appreciation. In order to view the course content, you will need to create an account with my website. However, the rest of the website can be browsed by clicking below.
