Composing with mobile technology: High school students and GarageBand for iPad1

Abstract

Given that a new era of music education technology has emerged in the twenty-first century and that technology presents increased opportunities for creativity, I investigated one application of integrating technology in the classroom using GarageBand for iPad. The purpose of this case study was to examine the experiences of high school students using GarageBand for iPad in a music technology class to compose original music. Students then shared and presented their works in class during peer-review critique sessions for growth and reflection. This study was carried out in my own classroom, and I served as both teacher and researcher. Three themes emerged from my research: music and production features, thinking creatively and instructional roadblocks. Recommendations for music teachers and for future research using music technology are also included.