Computer-Based Training
I'm Lazy
I don't like redoing things for the sake of redoing them.
I am totally a fan of refresher courses, practicing skills, and reviewing knowledge. I am not, however, a fan of doing the same exact work again if I have already done it. That said, I have linked you to the first site I made that has the descriptions of the types of CBT below (formerly referred to as CAI - Computer Assisted Instruction).
New Tech I've Discovered
A new discovery for me this week is a project from New York University called MusEdLab. I had heard of "Groove Pizza" in the past, but never actually spent time exploring. On my quest to groove with pizza, I decided to explore their computer keyboard play-along simulator called aQWERTYon. It unfortunately doesn't work on iPad, but I can see great uses of this app in the future if I have access to the computer lab or laptop cart.
​
This app alone could be used for a safe place to improvise, learning about chord progressions, composing melodies over a bassline, deciphering auarl dictation of melodies/harmonies, learning about scales, etc. It could even be useful for an electronic ensemble to reduce breath in the time of covid-19...
​
See below for a quick example of how it works.
Rhythm Writer is a simulator and game that musicians can use to test their skills visually an aurally. The original, pictured above, allows you to create your own rhythm and have the computer play it for you. One could use this to have students compose rhythms, attempt to read them, then check their performance by listening to the computer. If you follow the link to the game, students/musicians can test their aural skills by listening and watching a bouncing ball. Once the rhythmic pattern is selected from the cards, pressing the button will either remove points for incorrect beats, or play a chime and award points for a correct answer. My only complaint here is that if you accidentally click passed the unit you want, you must click through all of the rhythmic units before cycling back to it.
I love to use this discovery/simulation site with my students on their 1:1 iPads in my classroom. It gives them a great amount of learning through play, no matter the age. These tools can also be used at different ability and knowledge levels with equal enjoyment.