While there are several individuals and studios offering online lessons, at the tertiary level many have contended that face to face lessons are immeasurably better. In the current climate with Covid-19 forcing remote music lessons we are forced to rethink and to quantify exactly what it is that we do, why and how it should be tested. The move to remote music teaching is also time intensive and while there are some existing technologies that can aid with testing, what is possible and affordable is not only influenced by the institution and the teachers resources, but also student resources.
I am in the process of writing policy for such an unusual situation and would welcome your input. To some extent several music classes might be taught online: Applied music classes (normally one-on-one face to face) via video linking software, also music history, music theory.
Problem areas are with band/ choir/ steel band or other ensemble. The skills gained through ensemble work cannot be easily replicated, and - so far - we have been unable to come up with an alternative assignment.
Students who are due to have practical examinations at the end of semester (performing for 7 mins) may be in a physical setting, having been sent home, where they do NOT have access to the internet, or in some cases to a piano or keyboard. What can be done?
The lack of internet is a big problem. I know that Zoom allows for calling in by phone, which could help in those instances, as well as gathering a physical packet of any sheet music required. For vocalists, they could sing their material over the phone--allowances being made for drop in tone quality. If a person does have access to the internet, there are online apps that mimic a keyboard. However, the lack of the internet and a physical instrument is a barrier I'm not sure how to overcome.
I am currently teaching all my students online via Tutorful, which has a dedicated online classroom, for either single students or groups. Unfortunately lag is definitely a problem for all the sites but at least they have decent phase cancellation, which most others lack. If they don't have a piano or keyboard at home, then there isn't really much you can do if they can't afford to get one. It is possible to practice fingering using a paper keyboard if there is no other option.
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