Going into this interview with Mr. M (as I will call him), I did not expect there to be very much technology integrated into the music classroom. In my experience, I have never seen a wide range of up to date items used in music class. Mr. M teaches middle school and high school choir classes, classes that don’t seem to require a wide range of technology. However, when I asked Mr. M what he was able to use, there was actually more than I expected. He uses white boards, projectors, CDs, MP3s, and even video cameras. Little did I know that each one of these things greatly improves the music education of choir students, but we know that these days, if it is up to date and works, then it’s worth using.

Another question I asked Mr. M was how he uses these different technologies in class. He had a very interesting way of integrating different things. One that I thought was very useful was the video camera. He uses the video camera to record all their performances. When I asked what that was good for, he told me that it was “a way to show the students what a choir should or shouldn’t look like while performing.” Thus, they could always improve after watching each performance. Also, it’s a very useful tool to work on expression while singing. Among the other technologies, he uses the CDs and MP3s to give the students examples of the pieces they are singing and also as a tool for ear training. He uses the projectors and white boards for sight singing examples and small history lessons.

Of the other questions I asked, I thought that his response to the students learning was the best. When I asked him how they learned using the technology, he said, “The technology hits on all different levels of learning. It’s helps me direct my teaching so the students can learn by seeing, hearing, feeling, moving, participating, etc. Also, they enjoy watching themselves and critiquing the performances. It really helps motivate them to improve the next time.” I felt this was a very good point. The students learn about themselves and from others along with the help of the teacher. The technology allows for a nicely balanced learning atmosphere that helps engage the students on many different levels.

In hindsight, I would have loved to ask Mr. M what one piece of technology he wants that he doesn’t have. Unfortunately, I did not ask. However, I felt the information overall was very interesting and helpful. It gave me a much better understanding of how to use certain technology in the music classroom. It’s clearly a valuable and important tool for any content area.