Appendix C17

Middle States Outcomes Assessment 1999

Department or Program: Music

Goals

1. Students will exhibit competency on at least one musical instrument.

2. Graduates will possess fundamental theoretical and historical knowledge of their art.

3. Graduates will be competent in secondary skills considered necessary for careers in

music (piano, conducting, etc.)

G. C. P. Correlation

Reflexive thinking: attaining the skills required to play a musical instrument

involves a great deal of self-awareness.

Quantitative problem solving : music theory provides numerous levels of quantitative

problem solving.

Socioethical Understanding: by definition, music history addresses a student's sense

of humanity.

Means of Assessment

1. At the end of each semester the student must play a jury.

2. Each semester students compete for placement within major and minor ensembles.

Students are thereby assessed within the context of their peers; the ensemble is then evaluated in comparison to equivalent ensembles within the region.

3. At the end of the Sophomore year students are required to pass a barrier exam

covering music theory and aural skills.

4. Students are required to pass a one-on-one piano proficiency test.

5. Surveys of incoming Freshmen and alumni have been utilized since 1990.

Outcomes

1. Each jury member critiques the student's performance for both technical and musical

accomplishment.

2. Competition for most instruments is high; ensembles are performing at a level higher

than many regional schools.

3. The barrier exam covers materials and skills and is graded in terms of basic musical

competency.

4. The piano proficiency test covers materials and skills covered in class and is graded

in terms of basic musical competency and technical ability.

Use

1. The results of the jury are discussed between the applied teacher and their student,

helping to focus on goals for the following semester.

2. Applied faculty are aware of each student's placement within an ensemble and are able

to advise and instruct students as required; weaknesses in various ensemble performances have let to an increase in recruitment for specific instrumental types.

3. Students must pass the barrier exam to graduate. Also, weaknesses in barrier

performance allow the theory faculty to reconsider how their courses are being taught and what material is covered.

4. Students must pass the proficiency test to graduate.