The student teaching seminar is a crucial component in the final course work of the music education curriculum, though research that examines the structure and content of this important course is minimal. In this article, we provide in-depth descriptions of sample seminar activities, assessments, resources, and suggestions for creating a…

While much discussion and research is focused on the importance of music teacher mentors for preservice teachers and novice in-service music educators, little discussion has been devoted to the topic of how we, as members of the music education profession, can support the role of music teacher mentors. This article explores some of the benefits…

This response by Thomas A. Regelski was solicited to complement the lead article in this issue, "Toward Convergence: Adapting Music Education to Contemporary Society and Participatory Culture" by Evan S. Tobias. The author notes that many interesting and vital questions and alternatives that are often studiously ignored, overlooked, or taken for…

Feedback is crucial to students' growth as musicians. Fortunately, the teacher is not the sole source of feedback in the music classroom. Under the right conditions, students can provide actionable feedback to themselves and each other. This article showcases the work of three elementary music specialists who have innovatively incorporated…

At the heart of teaching others is the moral imperative to care. Social justice education begins with adopting a disposition to perceive and then act against indecencies and injustices. Teachers are public figures entrusted by a democratic society to act in the best interests of the children in their care. Music educators must embrace this social…

Videoconferencing technology can create opportunities to offer music teachers specific feedback that is crucial to satisfying their developmental needs by providing direct impact on instruction through online ensemble clinics. (Contains 3 notes.)

Frequently, mentoring and development programs are seen as efforts designed to benefit newer teachers, with the welfare of mentees in such programs generally the greatest concern. However, there are two other prime beneficiaries in such efforts: the mentor and the organization. This article deals with benefits as well as potential problems for…

Examines specific approaches and strategies for teaching discipline-based music education (DBME). DBME incorporates history, aesthetics, and criticism into traditional music education. Discusses creating a DBME unit, what questions to ask, and what resources to use. Includes a sample approach. (MJP)

Examines the future directions of music education at both the undergraduate and inservice levels. Recommends five ways to improve undergraduate education, including the student teaching experience. Delineates important aspects of an on-the-job training program which would increase personal satisfaction and professional status. (JDH)

This article examines the idea of mentoring and looks at the roles different individuals play in professional development within the preservice teacher education program. The major participants in the process are the preservice teacher, the college faculty members in the teacher education program who provide the foundational knowledge, and the…

Describes the opportunities available in summer workshops and graduate programs for music teachers. The impact of the workshops and programs on improving teacher effectiveness is evaluated. Criteria are included for evaluating program offerings for their usefulness to teachers. The author offers suggestions to workshop planners to improve the…

Urges music teacher certification to increase professionalism. Describes two certification programs that will begin to issue certifications during the 1990s: the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and the Music Educators National Conference (MENC). Expresses concern that certification will only be accepted if it focuses on…

Discusses sources of stress for music teachers and offers tips for coping with it. Relaxation exercises, physical exercise, and a change of environment are recommended. Teachers should realistically assess their abilities and career prospects. (AM)

Discusses the importance of new music teachers having experienced music teachers as a mentor. Addresses the work of a music educator, the history of mentoring, and how to find a music education mentor who offers expertise, empathy, support, and availability. Includes resources for mentoring. (CMK)

Provides suggestions for new instrumental music teachers to ensure success in their first year in the classroom. Gives advice for working with the principal and other teachers, for establishing a friendly but professional relationship with students, and for developing a personal teaching style. (LS)