TI:ME Is On Your Side

Many educators are looking to expand their computer chops beyond the basics of word processing and e-mail so that they can integrate music technology instruction into their classes. One Columbus, Ohio music teacher found a great solution: “I was originally trying to integrate technology in my music classroom with little knowledge other than information I had researched. When I discovered TI:ME, I finally had access to resources that I could immediately use. I was able to network with other professionals and get advice. My TI:ME membership has enabled me to learn more and teach my students using music technology. If you haven’t signed up for TI:ME it’s about time!”

TI:ME, the Technology Institute for Music Educators, is providing a pathway to computer literacy for hundreds of music teachers. Founded in 1995, TI:ME has set the standard for in-service training and has helped bring music educators up to the cutting edge of technological innovations. Besides its widely respected certification program, TI:ME also provides a forum for discussion, research, and development through its excellent Web site, www.ti-me.org. The TI:MES newsletter and regional and national conventions bring educators together with manufacturers, publishers, and software/hardware developers.

A TI:ME member from Philadelphia recalls, “I joined TI:ME back in 1997 when it became clear that music education technology presented unique challenges and opportunities to benefit music teaching. I remain a member today because it keeps me in touch with teachers all over the world who share my interests. I learn a great deal from the conferences, message board discussions, e-mail exchanges, and members-only content at TI:ME. This past week alone, I gained great insight into how other teachers use keyboards in their teaching and how effective distance learning can be. I learned this all from TI:ME’s online discussion group. I am happy to be a continuing member of TI:ME.”

Courseware and Certification
TI:ME’s strength is that they provide hands-on courseware to train music educators in the field. This serves a dual purpose: education and certification. Teachers from across the country can participate in workshops to learn how to better utilize their use music technology in the classroom. Educators learn strategies and methods to integrate music technology into their daily routine and school curriculum. Taught by certified instructors in hands-on environments, these courses are an intense, yet supportive way to learn all things music technology.

TI:ME also has a national music technology certification program, although teachers may take TI:ME courses without pursuing the certification. This professional growth opportunity is designed around straight-forward courseware covering the gamut of music software applications, including notation, sequencing, electronic instruments, multimedia, digital media, digital audio, interactive Internet authoring, and curriculum integration.

In 2007, 65 summer workshops were taught in 16 states, with two other locations offering videoconferencing instruction. For each workshop, participants receive a detailed notebook with between 60 and 100 pages of instruction and projects. Any music educator wishing to obtain TI:ME Level 1 certification must take two required courses (two graduate credits each) and submit an application to TI:ME, along with the appropriate fees. TI:ME membership is also required. Level 2 is comprised of four more courses (eight graduate credits) in any of the 13 available workshops.

Level 1 TI:ME courses focus on using technology in music education and include 1A and 1B components. Upon completion of both courses, teachers are familiar with the following six areas of technology:

1. Electronic Instruments

a. Keyboards
b. Controllers
c. Synthesizers and Samplers
d. Ensemble Performance

2. Music Production Software

a. Data Types
b. MIDI
c. Digital Audio
d. Processes

i.Looping
ii. Sequencing
iii. Signal Processing
iv. Sound Design

3. Music Notation Software

4.Technology Assisted Learning

a. Instructional Software
b. Accompaniment/Practice Tools
c. Internet-based Learning

5. Multimedia

a. Multimedia Authoring

i. Web Pages
ii. Presentations (PowerPoint, Keynote)
iii. Movie/DVD

b. Digital Image Capturing (Scanning, Still/Video Camera)
c.