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Cognitive processes of ten and eleven year olds in arranging melodies
Author
Lai, Annie
Supervisor
Chong, Sylvia Nguik Yin
Abstract
The study investigates the thinking processes and decision-making behaviours of Singaporean children, aged ten to eleven, engaged in arranging melodies from given musical materials Five pitch patterns were presented to ten participants and the task was to arrange a melody out of these given pitch patterns. Specific instructions included that the arrangement must have a beginning, and an ending; the participant was free to repeat or omit pitch patterns whenever he/ she thought it appropriate. The arrangement should consist of a minimum of five and maximum of seven pitch patterns. Qualitative research and analysis techniques were adopted in view of its flexibility and adaptability to allow the context to inform the researcher. The products and working processes of three participants were analysed as case studies. Findings of this study show that contour schemes, representation of rhythm and cognitive processes such as sorting and grouping; developing and exploring perspectives; evaluating decisions contributed to participants' final arrangement. This study proposes that self-directed discovery, in musical problem solving, is based on individual's application and coordination of various cognitive strategies and processes.
Date Issued
2000
Call Number
ML3838 Lai
Date Submitted
2000