Part 1

Hi guys, hope you are well. This month has been hectic, especially this week, so much to do and so little time to do so. I am feeling okay, I have submitted most of my assignments, far from done before the semester ends, but so far everything seems to be on track regarding my studies. I must say working and studying at the same time does take its toll on me sometimes; but I just take a couple of minutes to regather my thoughts and work through the process with a clear and peaceful mind. I hope you are doing alright with your studies :) we nearly there, let's get the semester done and present assignments, projects and tasks we are proud of, I am sure everyone is trying their best. Good luck! I feel a little bit sad that this is the last study unit blog post :( I really enjoy this escape to process my feelings and thoughts in a creative manner. Can't wait to read your blog posts. Like Dory on Finding Nemo says; "Just keep swimming"

Part 2

I have realized that a teacher can't just play certain songs or let the children sing a couple of nursery rhymes and think this has covered teaching music in the classroom; there is a lot more planning and detail that is required for music to be integrated successfully in a lesson, this can be a music lesson or it could be part of a different subjects lesson. I also learnt that music should be taught in a learner-centered approach rather than just instructing or explaining certain concepts. An effective music lesson plan should focus more on how the learners can grasp new knowledge and concepts by utilizing prior knowledge, personal experiences and ensuring that the content and concepts being taught are relatable, and accommodate all learners; different backgrounds, level of understanding, confidence and likes or interests the learners have. The teacher should really plan and consider these aspects very carefully and in as much detail as possible so that each child receives the same amount of knowledge and teaching.

The element of this module I found most significant was the fact that the focus of teaching music as a subject has shifted from a teacher-based approach to a learner-centered approach. I really find it fascinating that teaching music or integrating music into another subjects lesson really allows learners to experience, express, learn and achieve confidence by means of their own understanding, abilities, collaborative skills and social skills. This is an effective manner in ensuring that learners achieve all goals and learning of new concepts in a holistic way and that they are given multiple opportunities to grasp specific concepts within the lesson.

Part 3

I would think the main reasons why assessment is neglected in Performing Arts and Music in the FP is due to the fact that most educators do not understand the importance of the subject, they think it is not really needed for the following phases in the child's schooling career, and most schools do not have the necessary materials or content to achieve optimal planning and assessment strategies because the focus is more towards other subjects than Performing Arts and Music. Also, I found that most teachers use their "music" or "arts" time to relax or focus on other subjects and they do not really plan, present and conclude those lessons in an important or detailed manner. Usually they thumb suck the marks and no proper assessment strategies are used to ensure that each learner has grasped the necessary skills and concepts. The above mentioned sentence is based on my personal experience and I hope most schools are more focused and diligent when it comes to planning and assessment in the Performing Arts and Music subject.

I would show the HOD the importance of assessment; not only for music but every subject. The best way to show or state your argument would be to place the emphasis on how poor or neglected assessment effects the learner's progress, obtaining of new knowledge and skills, struggling areas or concepts that have not been grasped, self-reflection process, and the most important fact is that the teacher will not be aware of the learners skills that need to be improved and will not adapt and change their teaching strategies accordingly. Continuous assessment plays a vital role in a learners development and schooling career; if no assessment is made the progress of the learner and teacher would stagnate and no new knowledge, skills and learning/teaching will take place.

This study unit has really opened my eyes in terms of ensuring the best teaching and learning environment takes place. It has shown me that I need to put more effort into my planning and assessments when it comes to Music; I will apply what I have learnt to all my lesson plans and assessment criteria in all subjects not only Music. I have realized now how important lesson planning and continuous assessment is for the learner's development and that this approach will enhance my children's skills, level of thinking and knowledge grasped in a more holistic manner as to what is currently happening at my school. This modules information has given me the confidence to speak up and raise awareness of the importance of proper and detailed planning, and also how important proper assessment strategies are for the children in my class.