As someone who holds a master’s degree in educational technology and juggles the roles of being not only a music teacher, but also an educational technology specialist, I’m here to share how you can naturally infuse tech into your music lessons. In this blog post, and on episode 266 of the podcast, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore how to integrate technology into your lessons.

1. Creating Lessons from Your Computer

Sure, streaming directly from your computer sounds like a no-brainer, but there’s a world of creative possibilities here. When you sit down to plan your music lessons, think about how technology can elevate your teaching. Here are some ideas to get those creative gears turning:

 

Rhythm Counting:

Use your computer screen to display static images of rhythms while playing music underneath for your students to count along with. The combination of visual and auditory learning makes the rhythm come alive. You can even choose music with different styles, like a hip-hop beat to make it exciting.

 

Interactive Stories:

Instead of just reading a book to your students, consider transforming it into an interactive story. For some classes, this might work wonders, making the pages of the book come alive. It’s an engaging way to teach while involving your students actively.

 

Movement Ideas:

Demonstrating movements, whether it’s yoga poses or complex folk dance steps, can be made incredibly easy by streaming examples from your computer. It takes away the guesswork and ensures your students understand the movements you’re teaching.

 

Music Exploration:

You can use YouTube or other websites to share music with your students. You don’t necessarily have to stream it on a screen, though. A Bluetooth speaker can work wonders, especially if you want your students to just listen and not be distracted by the visuals. You can play music from your computer while facing the screen away from your students to create a focused listening environment.

 

 

2. Using Student Chromebooks

If you’re worried about limited time with your students, Chromebooks can be your secret weapon. The key here is to plan how you want to use them effectively. Consider these activities:

 

Centers:

Set up various stations in your classroom, and have some of these stations dedicated to Chromebook activities. This creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Students can rotate through the stations, ensuring that everyone gets a taste of the tech experience.

 

Music Composition:

Older students, particularly those in upper elementary, can dive into music composition using Chromebooks. Provide them with instructions, and let their creativity flourish. This not only integrates technology but also nurtures their musical creativity.

 

Musical Games:

Chromebooks can be a powerful incentive. Reward well-behaved students with fun and educational music games that reinforce what they’ve been learning in your classes. It’s a win-win situation.

 

3. The Magic of Spotify Playlists: Elevating Your Teaching

Let’s look beyond the traditional classroom. Spotify playlists are a fantastic way to naturally integrate technology into your teaching. As a music educator, you can create or find playlists for various purposes, such as:

 

Body Percussion:

Craft a playlist that guides students on how to use their bodies for percussion. This kind of playlist can be a game-changer for rhythm and coordination exercises.

Bucket Drumming:

If you’re into bucket drumming, create a playlist filled with tracks that perfectly suit this rhythmic art. It’s like having a virtual drumming companion in your classroom.

Movement:

Curate a collection of music that inspires various movements and dance forms. Music is a universal language, and it’s a fantastic tool to bring energy and creativity into your lessons.

 

Finding Harmony Between Music and Tech

Integrating technology into your music classroom doesn’t need to be overwhelming. The key is to find the right balance and choose what works best for you and your students. You don’t have to use every piece of technology that’s out there. Instead, focus on what resonates with you, what enhances your teaching, and what captures the interest of your students.

Remember that technology is a tool to amplify your teaching, not to take it over. Keep the joy of music at the heart of your lessons, and technology will be your supportive sidekick, not the main act.

 

How do you integrate technology into your lessons? Tell me about it in the comments below or share your thoughts on social media as you share this post.   I’d love for you to share this post or any of the resources on my website with a friend or colleague who you know NEEDS to see it too.

P.S.  Are you feeling frustrated or stuck as an elementary music teacher?  Check out these free resources to help you teach elementary music with confidence!

Also…I wrote a book called “Make A Note: What You Really Need To Know About Teaching Elementary Music” to help music teachers move forward in your teaching career.  You can get your copy here.