Project learning in the kindergarten with the production of simple musical instruments

Project learning is a learning process which is strongly present in kindergartens. Childcare workers work with children on various projects within groups, units and the entire kindergarten. Since music is an important part of a child's development, we have chosen to focus in the diploma thesis on the project learning whilst hand making simple musical instruments. Our goal was to evaluate the child's skills and knowledge in technical education required for crafting simple musical instruments. In the theoretical part, we define the term “project learning” and its features based on professional literature. We introduce the principles of conducting project learning and the phases of the learning process. Then we also define the materials used in technical education to craft simple musical instruments. In addition, we elaborate on the technical qualities of wood, paper, synthetic materials and metals. Furthermore, we also list the types of musical instruments, their characteristics and discuss the role that the music plays in the child’s development. In the empirical part of the thesis, we present the actual hand making of ten simple rhythmical instruments which were worked on as a part of the project. The part also contains a description of the kindergarten workshops for children between the ages of 5 and 6. Using a check list, we have evaluated the skills and independence of children in crafting simple instruments. Questionnaires filled in by 40 pre-school teachers in a chosen kindergarten provided me with the answers on how well the latter are acquainted with project learning and hand making of simple musical instruments. The research has shown that pre-school teacher are well acquainted with the project learning and implement this method on the level of groups, units and the entire kindergarten by crafting simple musical instruments a few times per year. The choice of instruments, materials and techniques depends on the children’s age. In the questionnaire, the educators have expressed concerns in regards to the knowledge of music and simple musical instruments. During the workshops, we observed that the majority of pre-school teachers are skilful and independent in hand-making of the instruments. They are well acquainted with the materials and technical accessories used in the learning processes and they use them properly and accordingly. With my diploma thesis, I would like to excite the interest in musical instruments and their hand-making among the pre-school teacher and educators because the process helps the child develop their motoric skills and talents, acquire new knowledge and get to know themselves better