Music Curriculum in Higher Education that is Consistent with Student Development in the 21st Century: Empirical Data from Rajabhat University in Thailand

Abstract

The curriculum is important in setting the directions of teaching and learning activities and developing students to have knowledge and ability which lead to success. This research focuses on the study of music curriculum development and student development with the objectives: 1. To analyze the music curriculum in higher education 2. To study structures and learning outcomes of music curriculum in higher education in student development according to the 21st century skills and 3. To develop music curriculum in higher education to respond to changes in the 21st century. The research scope is to study Rajabhat University group in Thailand by analyzing data from the curriculum structures and learning outcomes. The correctness and suitability are assessed by using EDFR technique for 2 rounds to confirm the data and use it to create a questionnaire to organize a group discussion (focus group). The study shows that the music curriculum in Rajabhat University has a total of 127-140 credits throughout the curriculum, which is in line with the standards for undergraduate programs, with a total of not less than 120 credits. The learning outcomes of music curriculum of Rajabhat University have 6 learning outcomes which are consistent with the standard qualifications of higher education. It is also found that developing the curriculum to be consistent with changes in the 21st century must be created with outstanding points and unique identity and set clear goals for developing students to have knowledge and skills consistent with the needs of Thai and global contexts.