"Teacher as transmitter"
This concept is especially relevant after observing instrumental music educators "in action" this past week at Greenview. How the teacher presents and passes along information to students is critical to the success of them actually gaining the knowledge and appreciation for the subject matter. With this being said, teachers, first and foremost, must know the subject matter, the music, concepts, and techniques to be taught extremely well. This requires much preparation and planning beforehand. Also, the effective teacher must serve as a live model for students because many performance skills are learned though imitation or observing the behaviour of the teacher. Verbal explanations in the realm are far less effective. Finally, the teacher must present the information with energy and enthusiasm to keep the students constantly involved and excited about the information they are to learn. If we cannot convince our students that they are learning about something that is significant, then the likelihood that they will retain any of the knowledge we have presented to them is very low.
Seeing different teachers and their methods of "transmitting" information to students was extremely valuable this past week. It was especially interesting to compare a new teacher with someone with over twenty years of experience, and how their methods of classroom management and instruction have undoubtedly changed over time. I look forward to observing more of their teaching and gaining further insight into beginning instrumental instruction.
Well said. In future posts, please do not use the actual names of schools, teachers, or students.
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