Encouraging Cognitive Connections and Creativity in the Music Classroom

Abstract

The ability to apply knowledge rests at the core of the educational experience and is an important aspect of all teaching. In music education, many experiences are structured so information gained can be related to another activity, but such transfer can be difficult. When students learn to transfer information and knowledge to new situations, they are more likely to retain that knowledge; this retention seems to be enhanced when the information is presented within an activity where creativity is encouraged. There is also evidence to support a technique where the teacher clearly states that transfer is a goal for learning in a “community-of-learners” environment, where the students share verbally their creative connections with the class. This article is an exploration of the concept of transfer and includes strategies for teaching creative thinking through transfer activities in the secondary music classroom or rehearsal setting.