Piano Learning Reflection

Learning in a Changing World has brought on a number of learning experiences. The knowledge I have gained and theory I have completed through assessments and in class discussions and tasks has broadened my understanding of learning. It is evident that the theoretical perspectives focused on in this subject had a place in the process of my learning journey throughout the semester. Whether this has been learning a new skill for an assessment, observing and assisting teaching on placement or collaborative learning in the tutorials, a number of theories tie into these learning experiences.

The new skill I chose to learn for our assessment was to play the piano, I was not quite confidant and sure I would successfully achieve the skill. Balakrishnan & Claiborne (2012) touch on Lev Vygotsky’s term The More Knowledgeable Other (MKO), a person who has a higher ability and deeper understanding of a task, than the person who is learning the task. In my case my piano teacher was the MKO and was using her knowledge to assist me with learning. I gain a better understanding of a task once I try a hands on approach, this is why I was able to quickly learn to play a song on the piano. Gardner & Hatch (1989) speak of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, one being Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence, which I experienced in my classes, as I was controlling movements and managing the piano skilfully in the process. Towards my last piano classes I was proud of my efforts and improvement over the few weeks and was interested to continue after my assessment was complete. Lawrence (2009) writes about the behaviourist B. F. Skinner and his theory of Operant Conditioning, when an individual performs a task and their actions are rewarded and this stimulates the...

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...take part in collaborating with people from my community of practice I would not have a wider perspective and understanding of the topics discussed. Through the rest of my years at university I will continue to collaborate with peers from my community of practice to stimulate learning and to take on further opinions on topics.

The theories that related to my learning journey has grown my understanding of the world of learning, which will assist me with placement and teaching in the future. The theories have helped me to understand teaching styles, provided me with strategies to implement through my own teaching and helped with my development as a teacher. I have also learnt that education will be forever changing with new ideas and theories on learning, as a Pre service teacher and future teacher I must be open minded to these and continually build my knowledge.