Metcalf Laboratory School: A Report on a Model for Preservice Music Teacher Field Experiences

Abstract

This article reports on the first year of a collaborative effort between the instrumental methods students at Illinois State University and the beginning band and string program at Metcalf Laboratory School in Normal, Illinois, U.S.A. The curriculum of the University's methods course and the practices of the band and string program at Metcalf were aligned to allow preservice teachers from the university to work alongside the instrumental staff at Metcalf. The pedagogy learned in the methods classroom was put into practice. The university students benefited from 1) extended teaching time with the Metcalf students, (2) regular demonstration and feedback from both the university and Metcalf supervisor, (3) opportunities for peer evaluation, and (4) planned periods of reflection. The instrumental students at Metcalf achieved higher levels of proficiency on their instruments and progressed faster due to the increase in individual attention.