The Structure of Online Lessons
This past March, life changed suddenly. One day, we were having school, going to work, and running around after school taking our kids to various activities. Abruptly, everything closed and we had to quickly find new ways of doing the things we love to do. Music lessons shifted from in-person to online using video chat and us teachers had the challenge of continuing to engage our students.
My approach is always evolving as I learn about new tools and through trial and error, so there is no doubt that this list will change as time goes on. I can confidently say that my students have continued learning and we truly enjoy seeing each other through the screen each week. Here are some ways I keep the learning going strong and continue to tailor lessons to the individual needs of the student:
Each of my students has an online portal, which is accessed through my website, mandysschoolofmusic.com. This portal has been key for staying organized. In the portal, I post my students’ assignments for the following lesson. I also upload their music, theory assignments, etc. so that I have access to everything they are working on. There is a calendar so everyone can see their lesson schedule. Students can upload assignments and record their practice sessions.
I upload PDFs of theory assignments and other written work into the portal so the student can download it at home. This cuts down on the amount of emails we are sending back and forth.
I use google docs to keep track of progressing skills, such as scales. Families and I have access to the documents so that it’s easy to see where the student is at and where he/she is headed.
I am learning how to edit videos and we are working on duets that way! I always play duets with my students. Always. But it is impossible to play a duet over video chat so we are trying this new way. My students record a video playing their part, as do I, and I edit the parts together.
I am always available via email or text. I always was before, but there are more questions that come up when we are trying to communicate via online methods only. I am communicating with all my students more frequently during the week and am always available to help them figure out new challenges and answer questions.
Students and families choose their video chat platform. I offer Zoom, Skype, and Facetime lessons because people have different preferences when it comes to platforms.
I now show my students fun things online, like performance videos and sheet music, via screen sharing. We can even shop for new music online together during our lessons!
Online lessons are a great option for now. They enable a student to continue progressing and learning from a teacher he/she knows and trusts. Nothing is better than being able to talk in person, for me to be able to point at the spot in the music that I’m talking about, and write things down for my students as we talk. But we are making it work for now and will get back to face-to-face eventually!
