Fostering Critical Reflection and Productive Dialogue in Music Teacher Education

Abstract

Because teaching is an inherently political act, it is important for music teacher educators to consider their role in the public discourse and how they approach the political dimensions of teaching with future music educators. In this interest article, we offer a theoretical basis for engaging preservice music teachers in critical reflection and productive dialogue throughout their undergraduate music education coursework. In combination with theory, we describe specific strategies for designing environments and activities that encourage students to identify and question dualistic thinking, engage with diverse ideas and perspectives, and interrogate underlying assumptions and discursive patterns in their own and others’ thinking. Increasing undergraduate student competency in critical reflection and dialogue could motivate and assist them to pass on these important skills to their future PK–12 students.