Learning Management Systems in Elementary Music - Part 2

Last post, I specifically wrote about how Google Apps might be used as an LMS in an elementary music class.  In my district however, we could use Google Apps, but Google Classroom is not the direction we are headed.  Instead, from 6th grade on up, the district is using Canvas as an LMS.  At the elementary level, Canvas has been opened up this year.  Unfortunately not many have taken it on as yet.  Being the silly overchiever that I am, I decided to try to incorporate it into my elementary music classes.  Since it's brand new to everyone (me and the students) I decided to start with a unit on Recorders for my 4th grade students.

I use Recorder Karate as our curriculum, so I set up each Recorder Belt as it's own module.  There are many settings available to manage how you want the students to proceed through the lessons.  My choices usually were made to keep the students from being overwhelmed with the technology.  For instance, I used the module settings that would require students to work sequentially through each assignment, activity, and quiz, before going on to the next module.  The navigation bar to the side had so many options at first, but I narrowed them down so that students would only see "Modules", "Announcements", and "Grades".  Later on, I could open up other options to them as they are ready.

So far, I feel like I'm teaching more technology than recorder technique.  However, after the first few days, the students became more accustomed to the system, I was finally able to truly spend time with individual students who needed the extra help.   The students make videos for their belt tests, which I can then watch later and leave real feedback for the student right within the system. 

I am not sure this is the best way to teach recorder.  I do know that I've had more time with individual students, and the ability to give written feedback is wonderful.  This type of a system will take some getting used to at this level.  I don't want to use this technology just because it exists, but I do want to give it the chance of being a part of my student's education.  My next task ahead of me is creating a Music Elements unit for 5th grade to enhance their music listening and critical thinking skills.  I can't wait to see how Canvas works in my music room in a new situation!