The kids and I have been really excited about recording their music performances on the iPad. At times it has been difficult getting this project up and running with all of the technical glitches and establishing routines, but I finally have some momentum! Some little roadblocks to date have included:
1) fixing the log-off problem on google drive
2) getting AirServer installed and working (still finicky)
3) getting the students used to the process of recording and uploading using Google Drive
Here is a video clip of one student recording her performance test in a music practice room:
As you can see, we have to work on getting the proper perspective with the iPad and refining sound quality, but it's at least working.
Among other things, my intention going into this project was:
a) to allow the student to record their playing test on their own time, and
b) to encourage mastery by giving them an opportunity to record and re-record as often as necessary to achieve their best performance
HOWEVER, there was an interesting twist that I didn't see coming with regards to student's feelings about the recording process. Some reported a higher degree of nervousness/pressure/anxiety because they felt a personal obligation to make a perfect recording. In other words, they set the bar higher than ever knowing they were immortalizing themselves digitally. The process of stopping to re-record every time a mistake often began to frustrate them.
Many also said they were embarrassed to see and hear themselves in the video (self-consciousness). I'm not worried about this part...they need to get used to that as a means of self-evaluation. Tough luck.
Time constraints have played into this a bit since many students procrastinate . Many of them are vying for time with the iPads simultaneously. That only adds to the pressure they feel since they have to hurry up and get the job done so the next person can use the iPad. Working on a scheduling system that will alleviate this issue.
