School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Abstract

Today‟s use of computer pervades all areas of our lives, including activities in institutions of learning. Beyond the very facility of computation, data management, word processing etc, computers have become essential in providing instructional effectiveness, planning, and generally challenging the learning environment. The application of computer technology in the field of education is rapidly gaining ground world over. The common modern technological tools available to music educators are computers and electronic keyboards among others. Computer technology is now an integral tool in all aspects of the musician's work be it composing, concert performing, teaching, recording, browsing the internet, researching, or managing a concert series. This study sought to find out the role of computer technology usage for music education in Kenyan secondary schools. The study aimed at surveying the use of computer technology for music education, and specifically sought: to determine the status of technology usage in music education in schools; to explore and outline the instructional prospects for computer usage in music education and to establish the role of computer technology in the teaching of music. The study employed descriptive survey research method. It targeted music teachers and students as respondents. A total of 14 schools (53%), 11 teachers (55%) and 155 students (62%) from the schools in Nairobi Province offering music participated in the study. Data was collected from the respondents using iv questionnaires, interviews, and observation. The numerical data from questionnaires was subsequently coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The major findings of the study revealed that computers and ICT are present and accessible to Kenyan schools but their use is not adequate for music education. Lack of competence among some music teachers and incoherent ICT policy hindered proper application of computer technology in the field of music education. In light of these findings, recommendations for application of computer technology in the field of education for improvement and further course action by appropriate authorities were made.