PosyMus Potential of Feedback Systems in Music Lessons

• Duration: 2015 – 2017
• Project lead: Prof. Dr. Andreas Breiter

Research association/cooperation: Institute for Music Education Research at the Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media (hmtmh)

Funding institution: Federal Ministry of Education and Research

Together with the Institute for Music Education Research at the Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media (hmtmh), we investigated the potential of feedback systems in music lessons in the “PosyMus” project.

Validated tasks for measuring musical competence from previous research projects were processed and adapted in such a way that they can be used in computer-based tests at general education schools, also taking into account accessibility and usability aspects. The tests were carried out on mobile devices in already established “tablet classes” in northern Germany.

To provide and communicate the results of these tests, an electronic feedback system (eRMS) was then developed in collaboration with the teachers, which meets the multimedia requirements of music. In a mixed methods approach, the technical and personal conditions were to be described, focusing in particular on the use of the eRMS to support individual student support. At the same time, the possibilities of lesson development in the subject of music through the use of digital media and integrated learning assessments were to be explored. The aim was also to further develop forms of multimedia testing of music skills that are suitable for large-scale assessments and can possibly be transferred to other subjects.

The project was funded by the program of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (bmbf) for the promotion of research projects in connection with large-scale assessments.