Applying Research in Motivation and Learning to Music Education

Abstract

Current research on motivation and learning may assist teachers in identifying strategies to help students be successful and persevere in the music classroom. Students’ beliefs about their ability to learn, and the impact these beliefs have on their motivation to learn music, is a large focus of the research presented here. Aspects of music make it unique from other academic disciplines on student motivation. There are different motivational patterns exhibited at different age levels. Being aware of these various aspects may help teachers foster positive beliefs among students about their own music potential. This article presents a review of motivation and learning research literature and provides implications for today’s music classrooms and teaching profession. Suggestions are provided to change perception of talent, widen the scope of musical activities in schools, include authentic assessments, and have teachers learn how to increase student motivation and learning in the music classroom.