Understanding the Social and Emotional Characteristics of Students in Grades 4–12 as a Goal in Instrumental Music Teacher Education

The purpose of this study was to examine the preservice instrumental music teacher education curricula at our institution with regards to preservice student understanding of the social and emotional characteristics of students in grades 4-12. Data included researcher journals, recorded self-study meetings among the three researchers, sophomore and junior student work, and researcher reflections on individual interviews with 13 students. Findings will be presented within the following themes: (a) when social and emotional developmental concepts are addressed in the undergraduate music education curriculum; (b) how these notions should be introduced, implemented, and assessed; (c) intersections between preservice teacher identity and learning in this area; and (d) the importance of dialogue around music teacher education for graduate students and faculty.