Children's Beliefs About Their Own Competence in Learning a Musical Instrument will Predict How Much Effort They Will Exert
It has been well-documented that children's beliefs about their own competence in learning a musical instrument will predict how much effort they will exert (Dweck, 1986). Music teachers can use this knowledge to their advantage by helping students to develop a growth mindset. A child's beliefs about their own competence in learning an instrument will directly predict how much effort they are willing to exert. With a growth mindset, students believe that their musical ability is not fixed but can be improved with practice.?
A child's beliefs about their own competence in learning an instrument will directly predict how much effort they are willing to exert.
Children who believe that they are capable of learning an instrument quickly will be more motivated to put in the required practice time. On the other hand, children who think that it will take them a long time to learn an instrument or that they are not "naturally gifted" may give up more easily. Music teachers can help their students by instilling a sense of belief in their ability to learn.?
One way to do this is by praise and reinforcement. When a child practices their instrument and makes even small amounts of progress, the teacher should make sure to point it out. This will help the child see that their efforts are paying off and encourage them to continue practicing.?
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It is also important for music teachers to avoid any type of negative feedback. This can cause children to doubt their abilities and become discouraged. If a child is struggling with a particular concept, the teacher should try to find a different way to explain it or provide additional resources for practice.?
Teachers can help their students develop a growth mindset by praising their effort rather than their natural ability, emphasizing the importance of practice, and providing opportunities for students to experience mastery.?
A growth mindset has been shown to lead to increased effort and persistence, which are essential for success in playing a musical instrument. Teachers can help their students develop a growth mindset by praising their effort rather than their natural ability, emphasizing the importance of practice, and providing opportunities for students to experience mastery.?
Children's beliefs about their own competence in learning a musical instrument are critical to their success. By helping students develop a growth mindset, music teachers can set them up for success.
PhD Candidate in Rural Music Geography
2 年This is wonderfully important not only in developing young students' musical technique and desire to engage, but also in fostering lifelong engagement with music; the majority of adults do not consider themselves 'musical' largely because they do not believe that they have a higher-than-average level of musical talent. How sad it would be if no adults considered themselves 'musical' because they were never told that they were by their teachers... great article Monica!