7/25/2019
Topic:
Students with Disabilities
Ben Pyatt
|
Several years ago, as a high school band director, I wanted to serve our special needs students with participation in a music class. Our school was the "hub" for students with the most extreme disabilities in the school district. We created a music class for these students so they could have the opportunity to play musical instruments, learn about music, and eventually perform with the marching band at football games and competitions.
There were about 12 students with a wide range of challenges and methods of expression. Working with the special needs director and several aides, I started to get to know each of the students, their challenges and personalities. We selected hand-held or table mounted percussion instruments for each student that fit their grip and physical range of motion. Other students used traditional hand drums and one used an iPad to trigger different musical instruments (and tell jokes – she LOVED telling jokes and would cackle when she’d push the button for the punchline).
As with any music class, starting and stopping together is of paramount importance. I created a laminated piece of paper that had images on both sides (red light/green light) to help give us some parameters for when to play. We used this to cue students as we learned our parts to the marching band show. Some were able to attend after school marching band rehearsals periodically. All the students enjoyed getting to know each other and helped each other out. We got them fitted for uniforms, they participated in game/contest day meals, and performed with the band! This was one of the most rewarding teaching experiences I’ve ever had! |
7/25/2019
Topic:
Tools and Strategies
Ben Pyatt
|
I had a student who was non-traditional communicator who used an iPad to communicate. Her parents had installed a music app that allowed her to create different sound using her iPad. This allowed her to participate in the music-making during class. We were able to connect to our sound system via Bluetooth so we could all hear her musical contribution.
I also used a program called SmartMusic as a tool for our band students. SmartMusic is a web-based music education platform that connects teachers and students. Students have access to thousands of pieces of music several method books to choose from. I make assignments to the class either from a piece of music we are working on or the book we are working out of. Students can record themselves playing at home (without the anxiety of playing in front of peers) and submit their recording for me to listen to. The computer can assess correct pitch and rhythm (which I have over-ride power over) and I can listen for their tone development, articulation, dynamics, etc. I can type my feedback directly to them, giving information about their strengths and areas/techniques to make improvements. It allows me to notice patterns of success/struggle across the entire class and helps me to make adjustments to what we need to work on in class. Though it was not designed specifically for students with disabilities, it is a universal tool for all students. I have not had the opportunity to use this tool with a student with special needs yet, but I hope to! |
7/25/2019
Topic:
Assessment of Learning
Ben Pyatt
|
I had a music student with developmental delays, orthopedic impairments, and speech impairments. We utilized assisstive technology in the form of an iPad with an app that provided choices for the student to click on to help with her communication to us. We made some setting accommodations in that we played soft music that created a calm environment that would not over-stimulate. I wish I had this training prior to this teaching experience – I feel like I would have done a better job meeting my students where they are and facilitating their musical growth. |