A Grounded Theory of Culturally Responsible Music Teaching

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the nature of culturally responsible music teaching (CRMT) from the perspective of U.S. music teachers working in various formal settings. “Cultural responsibility” is an emergent concept regarding teaching and learning that (a) connects with students’ cultural frames and lived experiences, (b) empowers students in their own construction of knowledge and art, and (c) opens students to multiple viewpoints and perspectives on the world and music so that students will have meaningful music experiences and a more meaningful life due to music. I selected a constructivist grounded theory methodology to examine the development of cultural responsibility as a complex, detailed process over time. I sought and found 31 participants who identified as progressive K–12 music teachers who empower diverse learners. Thirteen facets of cultural responsibility were found: inviting, relatable, reachable, interactive, active and student-driven, creativity-based, musically diverse, interdisciplinary, multimodal, enjoyable, heartfelt, crafted, and determined teaching and learning. Music teachers described engaging students in such processes in various, distinct ways. Data revealed that music teachers are more or less culturally responsible because of the elements (methods, aims, and beliefs) of their pedagogy and, in relation, the presence or absence of each facet.