Evaluating a Pilot Improvisational Drumming Curriculum: Implications for Improving Confidence and Skills among Music Therapy Students

Abstract

Presented here are performance results of music therapy students in a college course that was designed to prepare them to use percussion interventions in therapy. After discussing the purpose and teaching methods used, self-reported confidence levels were examined to determine the effects of training in the use of common drum circle instruments and experience facilitating drum circles in a small-group setting. Data consisted of results from surveys regarding confidence and perceived skills. Mean confidence scores data were analyzed through graphical presentation. Mean self-reported skill-level scores were also compared to the mean scores given by the instructor for each question on the skills survey. Examination of the data indicated a positive trend for self-reported confidence and drumming-skill levels. Comparison of instructor scores and student scores indicated strong agreement between teacher and student assessment of skills. In addition, skill-level trends supported the idea that student confidence increased as skill level increased.

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