Technology in Music Education

I am very excited to be taking the Digital Media Production class at Auburn University this summer. I have been using technology in my classroom already, but I look forward to learning new and innovative ways to use it my classroom. As music educators, we should always strive to use the latest and best technologies in our classrooms to ensure that our student receive the best instruction possible. In today's whirlwind world of technological developments, it is important that educators continue to take classes and workshops to keep up with our students knowledge of technology. I am looking forward to receiving my certification in TI ME because I will be the only middle school and high school director with that certification.
It seems that teachers are always looking for new ways to make sure that their students remain interested in the materials that are covered in class. Students are eager to learn new and innovative ways to cover these materials. I have found that by giving the students the option to use technology in my music classroom, they are receptive and more excited about the material. As stated in my previous comments on the wiki page, I currently use my band web page to assist students in preparation for their all state auditions. Audio files of the etudes are posted at different tempos for students to practice with at home. Students also receive CD recordings of these etudes to practice at home. In my first two years at the middle school, I began tinkering with the idea so to speak and had one student to make all state. In the last four years, I have made a commitment to giving time to this area, and two of my students have made all state band.
The Rudolf article makes some good points. It talks about achievement increasing when technology is used on a regular basis and a rise in student interest. Again, I think that as band directors, we are always looking for something to help us retain interest and students. As the Rudolf study shows, student achievement increases.
I also agree with Dr. Walls on implementing technology. I am currently at a school with a low socio-economic group of students. I am forced to spend the bulk of my money on instruments for kids that can't afford it. I want to get a lab for the music department, but didn't think about things one at a time.
One of the articles mentioned that it is important for teachers to "screen" web material before they present it in class. I agree that is extremely important and can save us a big headache with parents and administrators.