Hello Bloggers!!!

I am so glad the end is near. What a rollercoaster of a semestar for me. I guess 10 modules in 1 semestar was a lot to chew but I made it. :) Now that final assessments have begun the rush has picked up again. The weather these days is not making studying any easier after a long day teaching Grade 1s. Guess it will all be worth it in the end. 

What did I find interesting about this module?

I wouldn't even know where to begin. Of all my hectic modules I was doing this semestar this was one of my favourites because of how unique it was. SU5 was also very interesting learning about lesson planning. 

• I enjoyed learning about the variety of teaching, learning and assessments activities.
• I enjoyed learning about methods of assessments.
• I enjoyed learning about incorporating music at the beginning and end of the lesson.
• I enjoyed learning about a well constructed lesson plan.

Possible Reasons that assessment is neglected in Performing arts?

It is quite a challenging and different subject to assess.

It poses its own unique challenges like there is no formal framework and structure for assessment.

Which means a lot of it relies on the teacher.  There no direct assessment levels. Some people may even neglect it because they don't see value in it or don't have necessary resources to be able to access this in their schools. The biggest thing I found doing a little bit of research on the topic was that arts education today is the general public attitude that career preparation is the main reason for school and thus knowledge not tied directly to job skills is unimportant.

So basically they only want to be assessed with subjects tied to job skills only which excludes certain learners. Another challenge though is that teachers have little formal training on arts. 

How would I advocate for and heighten awareness about the importance of assessments when speaking with my HOD? 

I would start by educating her and summarising how much knowledge I have gained just doing this module about music. That music is not a tool that can be used to carm or entertain in the classroom only but can be learnt as a subject so that the learners can incorporate it daily and the teachers can use it as a teaching tool. Knowledge is power is once she seems the benefits and even though they are challenges the end is goal is greater. 

Bibliography

https://www.upi.com/Archives/1988/05/03/Schools-neglect-arts-education/5219578635200/