Consider what you want to achieve with the application of technology. Some computer programs function primarily as practice partners , drilling and testing students on a variety of musical skills from rhythmic or notation reading to ear training exercises. Others test students' factual knowledge , offering feedback to right or wrong responses by awarding points and keeping scores. The study of music history and famous composers are brought to life through dazzling graphics, sound files, narrations, video clips and hypertext. Furthermore, software and hardware has advanced enormously since the first multi-media programs of the late 80's and early 90's.
Simulation software is well-known to computer games players.
Students may manipulate aural and visual images, experimenting with aesthetic choices as they do. Music notation programs , coupled with a MIDI keyboard, offer students the opportunity to see their improvisations magically transformed into a professional- looking musical score that can be printed and saved. Recorded MIDI disks are now being produced which provide interesting background accompaniments for many pedagogical compositions. These disks can be played via a computer or a stand-alone sequencer. Assess your resources.