Can someone learn to play an instrument entirely through online instruction? With the advent of youtube videos and communication tools like Skype, students can learn rudimentary skills on a variety of instruments, but how far can a student realistically progress before hitting a wall? Instruments like violin and flute are notoriously difficult to begin, requiring constant critique on a variety of levels in order to progress. I have found a few online resources I think are adequate, but I am hesitant to say they could completely replace traditional teacher/student interaction.
Violin: http://www.youtube.com/user/professorV?blend=1&ob=0
Flute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7e4hqPJz8I
I'd like to believe students can learn entirely through online instruction, however, I think the real question you're wanting to know is if they can "effectively" learn entirely online. In this case, I'd say no...primarily because students do need critique and reinforcement, that of which a video cannot provide. And unless the connection is superb my guess is that a critique via Skype could be quite difficult. Perhaps an introduction to a genre or instrument and its background could be provided via the web, but the beginning stages of practice with the instrument would have to be in a traditional setting.
ReplyDeleteI am leaning toward "no" myself, just because there are many "little things" that students need to focus on at once (posture, playing position, finger position, embouchure...) and many can be adjusted as they play. If a student records a lesson, though, and sends it in to an instructor, they are having to correct many things at once and the mind can get overloaded.
ReplyDeleteI tried to teach myself to play guitar ( a long time ago) using the guitar-for-beginners book I own. I don't think I got past the first couple lessons. However, I imagine that if I watched a video of someone using the exact book, I could probably pick-up a few things a little easier. All-in-all hitting that wall comes fast I'm sure.
ReplyDeleteWouldn’t it be nice if we can learn everything from one “source?” I would think a beginner instrument player would not even know where to start. How would s/he learn to string the guitar, tune it, strum it without formative feedback?
ReplyDeleteNow, if a seasoned six string guitar player wanted to learn how to play a base guitar, I would think they could easily use an electronic tutor. They already know keys, figure how to tune it. I think the same thought process could be used when introducing online courses. We have a virtual program at our High School but I would not send a Middle School student to take one. Forget about an elementary student. There are too many live situations that need to be instilled before you put a K-9 (I might even say K-10) student out to be lost.
Ray