Problem-Based Learning in the College Music Classroom

Book excerpt: Problem-Based Learning in the College Music Classroom explores the core tenets of Problem-Based Learning (PBL). PBL is an effective, student-centered approach in which students learn higher-order thinking skills and integrative strategies by solving real-world challenges - not often employed in music classrooms. Yet such courses are uniquely situated to advance this innovative pedagogical approach. This volume sheds light on PBL best practices in survey- and topic-based music courses while integrating general education content, discussing implementation, materials, methods, and challenges, and encouraging readers to think creatively to develop flexible solutions for large-scale issues. Bookended by introductory and concluding chapters that delve into the history, theory, application, and assessment of PBL, the text collects classroom-tested case studies from eleven contributing authors in: Music History and Appreciation Ethnomusicology Music and Movement Music Theory and Education Problem-Based Learning in the College Music Classroom paves the way for pedagogical discovery in this unexplored area, encouraging teachers and graduate students to move curricula goals forward - and ultimately to move students toward innovation and engagement.