1.7 Chapter 1 Summary
Chapter 1 Summary
This chapter introduced the foundations of the course and the mindset you will need as a developing teacher:
- You set up your Teaching Toolbox, a living document that will grow throughout the course as you collect strategies, resources, and reflections on your teaching practice.
- You explored the difference between knowledge and understanding, and were introduced to the stages of learning and the competence hierarchy.
- You learned about Understanding by Design and the three stages of backward design (Wiggins & McTighe): identify desired results, determine acceptable evidence, and plan learning experiences.
- You explored why music education matters and the relationship between music and language in the brain.
- You learned the distinction between pedagogy and andragogy, and considered how teaching approaches differ for children and adults.
- You explored why effective learning should be effortful, and how to balance challenge with creativity and play in your teaching.
- You began identifying your own teaching values and principles—a starting point that you will revisit later in the course as your understanding deepens.
The course follows a flipped-classroom approach, combining online modules with in-person collaborative assignments and teaching practice. You are expected to maintain your Teaching Toolbox throughout the semester.
Looking Ahead to Next Class
Discussion Topics
What surprised you about your own teaching values when you wrote them down? How did your experiences as a student shape the kind of teacher you want to be? How might Understanding by Design change the way you plan a lesson?