Kind and Wicked Learning Environments in Musical Study.

Kind and Wicked Learning Environments in musical study.

The subject of kind and wicked learning environments is complex. This blog deals with just one small application from research insights. Namely, using of feedback to make correct decisions. For deeper details, there are links in the Psychology today blog to the research papers and scholarly books. 

Definition: In a “kind” learning environment we learn from experience. For example, in sports we get immediate feedback because the distance between cause and effect is immediate. Furthermore, with help from the coaches, teammates, and others we progress through the predictable steps to mastery. Musical proficiency is similar. But, in “wicked” learning environments there is, for many reasons, no predictable path to mastery.  This blog will only discuss the “kind” learning environment and the role of feedback.

Feedback is crucial to learning a musical instrument. The popular late 20c. axiom, “feedback is the breakfast of champions” incapsulates this idea. Creating feedback loops in your practice is key to progressing with fewer setbacks and false starts. In lessons the teacher provides immediate feedback but at home we are left to our own devices. Here are a few strategies skilled music students use at home.

1. They listen to professional recordings of the music they are learning. This gives them detailed aural knowledge of how the piece should sound. Think of it this way. If a musician hits a wrong note when performing happy birthday, the revellers immediately know it. However, too many students practice wrong notes all week because they have no aural model to guide them.
2. Skilled music students know what they sound like and and have developed resilence to deal with it. I understand that this is tough for students who are uncomfortable hearing recordings of themselves. However, the benefits of pushing through this resistance are worth it in the end. With this type of feedback, skilled music students understand the reason a passage needs repeating. 
3. Skilled music students don’t skip assessments, workshops, or recitals and other opportunities to play in front of other people. This is like skipping games in sports.
4. Skilled music students are kind to themselves by nurturing and enlarging their capacity to be humble and patient. 

The links below go to the science. Psychology today has a list of scientific papers and links. 

If I can help you on your journey, call me.
 
David

References:
Experience: Kind vs. Wicked | Psychology Today
How to give and receive feedback effectively - PMC (nih.gov)

Revised 2024

I use this device at band practice. At home I use the built in digital recorder in my piano.