Assessment in the Music Learning Theory–Based Classroom

This chapter provides a brief history of how instruction and assessment used by music learning theory (MLT) practitioners evolved from Edwin Gordon’s research on music aptitude. It describes aptitude tests created by Gordon, the purpose of these tests, and the ways in which MLT practitioners use this data to inform instruction and evaluate student growth. It outlines the ways in which MLT practitioners assess students’ achievement within the context of classroom activities in elementary general music settings and provides examples of measurement tools teachers may use to assess the students’ development of musical skills. Finally, it includes suggestions for ways in which teachers can use assessment data to individualize instruction, guide curricular decisions, evaluate students’ musical development, and reflect on the effectiveness of their teaching.