Technology Teaching the Teacher A Study of Keyboard Instructional Praxis in a Computer-Based Learning Environment

Abstract

This pilot study was conducted as a preliminary to a more extensive investigation. Despite evidence of group piano teaching dating back as far as 1816, few studies have demonstrated best practice under these conditions. Technological changes, including the recent incorporation of synthesizer and sequencer into music laboratories, have created opportunities for a radical shift to occur in group keyboard teaching whereby students may be encouraged to take greater control of their learning and to progress at their own pace within a group structure. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the technology might be utilised by both teacher and students and to further determine whether pre-existing attitudes might impinge on the use of the technology. The qualitative focus of the study facilitated participant observation to provide enriched data. Results indicated that students who were keyboard novices appeared to benefit most from the technology while those with prior instrumental experience made less use of the technology, apparently being predisposed to a more traditional approach.