Curriculum
At the heart of Oberlin’s music education curriculum are our mission (See Mission Statement) and the National Standards for the Arts (See Appendix for music standards), which reflect national consensus about high quality music instruction for today’s pre-K through 12 students. Curriculum at Oberlin is developed also in accordance with other standards established by accrediting agencies and associations monitoring the preparation of public school music teachers. As revisions are mandated by any of these organizations, Oberlin’s curriculum is modified to ensure continuing compliance with current professional standards devised by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the National Council for the Accreditation of Teachers (NCATE), and the Ohio Department of Education as mandated by the legislature in the State Code. Currently Ohio is undergoing the revision of standards for preparation of teachers; and changes in the Music Education Division curriculum will reflect those state revisions.
Curricular revision occurs regularly as determined by Music Education Division faculty, as well, on the basis of student needs, alumni feedback (surveys conducted every five years), reviews of the Music Education Division by the Conservatory, and requirements for effective and successful teaching as perceived by music education faculty members. Every phase of curricular development or revision focuses on ensuring that music education graduates are outstanding musicians with the educational background necessary to engage skillfully and reflectively in appropriate professional practice.
Curricular requirements and expectations are detailed in the Course Catalog and summarized on advising checklists devised for each program and emphasis. More detailed information about certain requirements is provided in the following pages. Specific questions should be addressed to a music education advisor and/or the Director of Music Education Division.
Music Education course syllabi are available online. Handbooks for the Music Education Division, Graduate Music Education Program, and the Community Music Minor are located online as well. |
