When the COVID-19 pandemic hit American soil earlier this year, teachers were sent into a frenzy due to being forced into teaching virtually, not understanding the challenges that would come from that. Teachers face new struggles each day as they attempt to educate the youth of America over the Internet in an attempt to protect everyone involved from the virus while also continuing to educate young minds. Music teachers, in particular, have found it difficult to get students involved and enjoy music class over the internet. Here are a few great tips that music educators can use when teaching virtually.
Make Sure Everyone Has The Right Equipment
If you’re going to be teaching music virtually, it’s important that everyone involved has the equipment they need in order to take part. This includes both the teacher and the students. It’s important to make sure everyone has a computer, a webcam, headphones, an internet connection, and any software you might be using to teach your students virtually. If there is any other musical equipment they may need, look into how they can get that.
Treat It Like An In-Person Class
While it may be difficult, it’s important that you treat an online class like any normal in-person class. Since it can be much easier for students to get distracted during a virtual class, employ rules that will ultimately help them keep their focus on you. Students shouldn’t be allowed to have their phones during class, and eating should be prohibited as well. It’s also important that students are in a quiet environment, not only for themselves but for any other students involved. Background noises such as television or pets can be distracting for everyone in the class so it’s essential that grounds are set early on.
Use No Tech Ideas
Depending on your location and school district, your students may not have access to everything you may want them to have for your lessons. This is where creativity is important, as it’s totally possible to teach music without any equipment when teaching virtually. For example, have your students create their own instruments. They can describe how it makes sound and what it’s made of and you can even have them draw photos to show us what it would look like. Another great no-tech idea is to teach simple dance moves via webcam, or teaching singing exercises.
