Project Title
Follow the Rhythm: A Case Study Using Vibroacoustic Technology in Music Education to Promote Rhythmic Entrainment
Faculty Mentor(s) Name(s)
Laurie Peebles
Abstract
We do not see vibroacoustic music therapy techniques and equipment (such as the Somatron) crossing over into the music education realm nearly as frequently as could be beneficial to both fields. Therefore, this observational qualitative case study intends to evaluate the potential positive effects of using Somatron and other forms of vibroacoustic technology when applied in a music education context. This research is important because it provides a different pedagogical method, which includes tactile stimulation to help focus on music acquisition in teaching and entrainment, which in some cases can be difficult to achieve satisfactorily otherwise. Primary research questions guiding this observational qualitative case study will be: How can Somatron™ and other vibroacoustic technology be implemented in music education to promote rhythmic and sensorimotor entrainment? What are the benefits of incorporating this technology into practices, which aim to promote acquisition of musical skills? Participants will be three beginning music students with minimal prior music and rhythm learning experience, currently enrolled in private music instruction. Vibroacoustic technology will be utilized across three sessions where the student will interact with the researcher (who is also the teacher) and complete rhythmic exercise examples, both without additional stimuli and then with Somatron technology which allows them to feel the pulse and beat of music backing tracks for the rhythm examples.
Follow the Rhythm: A Case Study Using Vibroacoustic Technology in Music Education to Promote Rhythmic Entrainment
We do not see vibroacoustic music therapy techniques and equipment (such as the Somatron) crossing over into the music education realm nearly as frequently as could be beneficial to both fields. Therefore, this observational qualitative case study intends to evaluate the potential positive effects of using Somatron and other forms of vibroacoustic technology when applied in a music education context. This research is important because it provides a different pedagogical method, which includes tactile stimulation to help focus on music acquisition in teaching and entrainment, which in some cases can be difficult to achieve satisfactorily otherwise. Primary research questions guiding this observational qualitative case study will be: How can Somatron™ and other vibroacoustic technology be implemented in music education to promote rhythmic and sensorimotor entrainment? What are the benefits of incorporating this technology into practices, which aim to promote acquisition of musical skills? Participants will be three beginning music students with minimal prior music and rhythm learning experience, currently enrolled in private music instruction. Vibroacoustic technology will be utilized across three sessions where the student will interact with the researcher (who is also the teacher) and complete rhythmic exercise examples, both without additional stimuli and then with Somatron technology which allows them to feel the pulse and beat of music backing tracks for the rhythm examples.