Using Online Technology to Improve Learning Outcomes
For many teachers and students of music, a disproportionate amount of time is invested in practical studies, as compared to the study of music theory and aural training.
Teachers know that theory and aural training are an integral part of every musician’s development yet they often prioritise the practical. Students tend to view music theory study as a bit dull and may actively resist it. While parents, who pay for the lessons, usually judge the value of lessons based solely on how well they perceive their child is playing.
The result is a gap in learning with the majority of students being more advanced in their practical than they are with their theory. To balance and enhance learning outcomes it is necessary to deliver a method of teaching music theory which:
- Students enjoy
- Allows teachers to effectively lead music theory study, without being bogged down in the delivery
- Is easily accessible to teachers, students and parents in their own homes or places of work
- Meets the syllabus requirements of leading examination boards
Virtuoso Music Theory School is an online tool to assist teachers in the delivery of music theory. To support the needs of both teachers and students we will:
- Provide teachers a quick and easy way to monitor, evaluate and identify students learning needs so they can continue to provide additional support and guidance where necessary.
- Reduce the time required by teachers to deliver theory lessons, allowing time to teach more students or spend more time teaching the practical.
- Improve outcomes for students by utilising a successful online learning model to support and encourage self-paced learning and assessment.
Virtuoso’s Visionary, Jaroslav Novak.
Director Jaroslav Novak is an accomplished musician and music teacher based in Dunedin, New Zealand. Facing the difficulty of having enough time to meet a growing demand for music and theory lessons Jaroslav identified the opportunity to use online technology to revolutionise the way music theory is taught.
Guided by advice from music experts, Jaroslav has developed the syllabus into a programme of study that will compliment 90%+ of existing requirements, from leading examination boards including Royal Schools, Trinity, AMEB and St Cecilia.
Innovative Learning
CEO and President Michael Reid is a Doctor of Psychology with interests and specialties that include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Complex and Challenging Behaviour and Psychopharmacology, to name but a few. Michael has in recent years, focused on workforce development and quality management systems using technology based solutions. He and his team work to develop accessible, user friendly, affordable training and measurement systems.
