ICT in school music education in Taiwan: Experts, experience and expectations

This research pertains to the application of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in primary school music education in Taiwan, where government policy has driven increased ICT use in the learning environment. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with ten experts who were music teachers in primary schools and who specialise in the application of ICT. The respondents discussed their experience and expectations of using ICT in their teaching. A semi-structured interview was employed to obtain the information from the respondents. The research found that these teachers had a positive attitude toward the application of ICT in music teaching. Even though there was a number of issues identified such as preparation time, limited support, and the confusion of music learning content involving ICT, all the respondents agreed that ICT has increased the quality of teaching. They also provided a range of strategies for applying ICT in music teaching, including use of the Internet, CAI, notation and sequencing programs, audio editing programs, PowerPoint, MIDI, digital pianos, and CDs/DVDs. Moreover, these teachers expected more support from the government and schools including: (1) ICT facilities and technical assistance; (2) a database of systematic teaching materials; (3) adequate teaching time; (4) further professional development; and (5) more attention to music education. This research can provide other music teachers with useful insight into ICT application. In addition, it provided recommendations for government and school administrators for further promotion and development