Week 11: BYOD in Music Education

Hey Everyone!

BYOD in Music Education: A Debate on Mobile Phones in School

In this week's lecture we had a discussion on the heated topic of the concept of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) in music education in NSW. This introductory session sparked an engaging debate among students, teachers and parents about the current ban of mobile phones in schools. We also explored a website created by James and Rebecca, providing a range of music resources and softwares for music educators and students.

NSW Mobile Phone Ban Debate

As someone who recently graduated from high school, I find the discourse around mobile phones in schools quite relatable. On one hand, mobile phones have the potential to be powerful educational tools. They offer access to a wide range of educational apps and online resources that can enrich the learning experience. However, they are a huge distraction, impacting student's learning. During the lecture, we discussed how mobile phones, with their advanced capabilities, can easily divert students' attention away from their studies. An interesting solution some schools have implemented is the "Yondr pouch." This innovative approach creates phone-free environments by securely storing mobile devices in lockable pouches. This way, students can focus on their lessons without the constant temptation of checking their phones. The parents' perspectives on mobile phone usage in schools varied greatly. Some parents view smartphones as essential communication tools, especially for their children's safety while traveling to and from school.

Resources for BYOD in Music Education

During the lecture I explored James and Rebecca's website "byodmusic", this website includes an abundance of resources for music education. Within the website it is well organised offering a range of music software designed to aid in musicology, aural training, music theory, and performance. This website serves as a comprehensive list for students and educators seeking to integrating BYOD in music education. I spent some time clicking on a couple websites i had never heard of and i think they are all so interactive and easy to navigate. Some standout choices include interactive aural and ear training games, as well as a variety of free composition software. These tools can make learning music more engaging and accessible for students.

Impact of BYOD Policies on Music Education

BYOD policies could significantly enhance students' learning experiences in music education. With their own devices, students can easily access online learning platforms and applications tailored to music education, such as composing and performing tools. This access can facilitate a more personalised and flexible learning environment, where students can explore and develop their musical skills at their own pace.

Challenges of Implementing BYOD in a Classroom Setting

However, implementing BYOD in music classes is not without its challenges. One major issue is accessibility. Not all students have access to high-quality or up-to-date devices, which can create inequalities in their ability to participate fully in class activities. This digital divide can be a significant barrier to the successful implementation of BYOD policies. Additionally, devices can be a source of distraction. Without proper management and guidelines, students might use their devices for non-educational purposes, which can detract from the learning experience. Teachers can find a balance between leveraging technology for educational benefits and minimising potential distractions.