Issues Debated in the Research Literature

Abstract

In this chapter, I identify some of the difficulties related to focusing on musical creativity in schools. I believe that these are important and propose discussing them through the research literature. In the realm of music education, student creative activity has traditionally been studied through personal lessons outside of the context of the classroom. Some authors have already committed themselves to the observation of improvisation and musical composition. I propose discussing the process of musical production through a framework that allows for student creativity and through discussions that encourage them to become aware of their own activity and creativity. From this perspective, the teacher is not the only creator of student learning. Students can become central to their own learning if the teacher teaches; supports; guides; proposes different performances, alternatives, and new perspectives; gives feedback about the student’s performance; encourages the student to become aware; or provides explicit criteria concerning quality.