Digital tools to support motivation of music students for instrumental practice

Instrumental practice is fundamental to the development of musical expertise, and motivation plays a vital role. Music practice can be challenging for many children as it demands significant effort, resilience and perseverance. Motivation is also essential in applying appropriate strategies necessary for effective practice and musical attainment. Founded on multiple motivational theories, motivational design models aim to provide a comprehensive framework to address motivational issues in learning environments. This case study analysed digital tools to determine their potential to facilitate motivational strategies to increase children’s engagement and motivation for music practice. Five such categories of tools were identified: practice logs, note feedback tools, portfolios, music stand software and accompaniment tools. Using the attention, relevance, confidence and satisfaction (ARCS) motivational framework, this research found that most tools potentially facilitated motivational strategies to a restricted extent and suggests that a limited range of digital tools may currently be available to fully support children’s motivation for instrumental practice.