Effects of Competency-Based Methods of Instruction and Self-Observation on Ensemble Directors' Use of Sequential Patterns

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of competency-based self-analysis of videotape rehearsals by practicing music teachers on the use of complete and correct sequential patterns of instruction and their components. Complete patterns follow the cyclical pattern of task presentation, student response, and immediate teacher feedback. Correct patterns require that task presentation include academic material and that feedback be specific and related to the task. Twelve teachers of sixth-grade choral and instrumental classes were matched in pairs, placed in experimental or contact-control groups, and videotaped during four rehearsals of the same class at 2-week intervals. Subjects reviewed Tapes 2 and 3 of their own rehearsals, with experimental teachers using operational definitions and self-analysis of typed transcripts, and contact-control teachers using unfocused observation instructions. Results indicate that research-based teaching techniques were effective in significantly increasing experimental teachers' use of complete sequential patterns and percentages of time spent in music activities.