Navigating Digital Frontiers in Music Education: The MUSENSE Project's Contribution to E-Learning

Abstract

The integration of digital technologies into music education, particularly through the MUSENSE project, marks a pivotal evolution in teaching and learning practices within this creative domain. This research paper explores the project's innovative approach to leveraging state-of-the-art technologies that include AI (Artificial Intelligence), IOT (Internet of Things), robotic and eXtended (XR)/virtual (VR)/augmented (AR) reality and other emerging technologies to enhance music education and performance. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional music education faced significant challenges, catalyzing the need for alternative, technologically driven pedagogical strategies. MUSENSE addresses this gap by facilitating the digital transformation of music education, aiming to enrich learning experiences and broaden access to music performance education. This is implemented through a mixed-methods research approach that utilises an open repository designed to collect, decompose, present the functions of the basic functional components and elements of appropriate case studies. In addition, through the collection of stakeholder interviews and expert contact information, the project reports on the current state of emerging technology adoption in music education, assesses the educational implications of these technologies, and explores their potential to foster innovative teaching and learning practices. Initial findings suggest a positive impact on music education through immersive learning experiences provided by state-of-the-art technologies, alongside an increasing receptivity among educators and students towards integrating digital tools. However, challenges such as the digital divide and the need for curriculum adaptation emerge as critical considerations. This paper contributes to the discourse on digital innovation in music education by highlighting the opportunities and obstacles presented by integrating digital technologies, offering insights for educators, policymakers, and technology developers in navigating the future of music education in the digital age.