Aby, a Bachelor of Science student, wanted to branch out with a Faculty of Education breadth subject centred around music, and found joy in creative freedom while gaining the confidence to try new things.
Aby is a domestic student completing a Bachelor of Science in Computing and Software Systems.
What breadth subject (or subjects) did you complete?
The subject I completed was called Music, Learning and Popular Musicians (EDUC10058), which has now been renamed Playing in a Band: Music & Young People (EDUC10058).
What influenced you to enrol in this subject?
As someone who has played the guitar for a few years, I was looking for a music subject with a performance component. One of my friends who had previously completed this subject highly recommended it.
How did this subject change or expand your perspective on education?
I developed a new perspective on education, as I previously thought of education as being very structured. However, this subject proved that providing creative freedom to students can still help achieve the same goal.
Did anything surprise you about this subject?
The creative freedom given to us while we were preparing for our performance pieces. The final performance consisted of three covers of pop songs, and we were encouraged to take our own direction in terms of the style of performance.
What did you enjoy most about the subject?
Being able to work in a team. The teamwork aspect was great because I was surrounded by like-minded people, all with a passion for music and performing.
How did this subject enhance, complement, or contrast with your core subjects?
It was a contrast to my core subjects in the field of computing, which were mostly theory-based. I enjoyed having the opportunity to apply my learnings from this breadth subject in the form of a performance instead of an exam.
How did this subject inspire you?
I gained a new interest in education and learning, as I learned that there are many forms of learning that are effective.
Was there something you learned in this subject that you still use today, in further studies, in employment, or just in your own personal life?
Before undertaking this subject, I was a guitarist. However, this subject gave me the opportunity to learn other instruments, and I took that opportunity. I was happy to play the drums and piano in my final performances. All in all, it gave me the confidence to learn new things.
Can you talk a bit about what you’re doing right now (current studies, employment, etc.)?
I am currently in my second year, continuing with my Computing and Software Systems major. While I don’t exactly know what I want to do for my career, I want to do something that involves working as a team and communicating.
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