Sounding the Teaching | Page 14

SO UN D I N G T H E T E A CH IN G EX A MI NI NG MU SI C LEA R NI NG EX P ER I ENC ES 1 “ Prelude WHAT I REFLECT ON Do we design the layout of our music rooms based solely on learning instructions? Do we consider how the students feel about the room, how they would like the room? Do we stick to a traditional or regular layout or look for new or innovative layouts to enhance the way we interact? Do we plan our lessons based on the space or modify the space to suit our lesson? SHAHRIN MAHMUD What Approaches Can We Sound Out “ I believe practise allows us to hone our skills of facilitating with an aesthetic flow that magically transforms the class. We need the space to thoughtfully explore, reflecting on our practices in order to create that magic. IRENE CHAN CHUA SIEW LING WU MEIHUI 12 “ Have we taught music in a way that makes us mindful, that is respectful of differences, offers choices and lets students decide? Do we offer something for the soul? Peer observations are useful and are definitely powerful in helping one deepen learning and grow. Auto-ethnography is a self-study made up of the autobiography (narrative, self), ethnography (culture) and the writing experience of the phenomenon. It is a possible approach I can take on for a critical inquiry on mentoring. XIE ZHIZHONG TAN TEING IM SOME IMPORTANT TAKEAWAYS FOR ME AFTER ATTENDING A SESSION ON COMPOSITION a. Notation is a tool of documentation, not a pre-requisite for composition. b. While trying to restrict parameters for scaffolding composition, be mindful of balance and don't have too many restrictions as it will restrict personal expression. c. Whenever possible, ask students about their intentions instead of telling them. d. If students ask for ideas, always try to give at least three examples of potential ideas. If you give just one, the student will just copy it. 13