Proceedings, Oxford, UK (2002) - World Federation of Music Therapy

Experiential Learning: Temple University’s Approach To The
Education Of Music Therapy Students
Kathy Murphy – USA
This presentation provided an overview of the spectrum of experiential
learning methods used across all Music Therapy programs at Temple
University. All three members of Temple’s Music Therapy faculty were
interviewed to gain a better understanding of how they incorporate
experiential learning into their courses. All interviews were then
analyzed according to the following research questions:
How does the Music Therapy faculty conceptualize experiential learning;
How is experiential learning implemented within the class room;
How is experiential learning evaluated;
How are the boundaries perceived and/or maintained.
This analysis revealed four methods of experiential learning:
1) Demonstration;
2) Laboratory Experiences;
3) Experiential Exercises; and,
4) Group Models (in and out of class).
The level of participation on the part of the students and the role of the
educator within each method was described. Variables affecting the
depth of students’ personal involvement and boundary issues were
identified. Challenges to experiential learning in an academic setting and
topics for further research were also presented.
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