by Helen Jones
How does music theory help to teach computational thinking?
Computational thinking (CT) is a problem solving process that includes a number of characteristics, such as logical reasoning, breaking down problems into smaller pieces, and identifying patterns. It’s a way of thinking that is increasingly being taught in schools as a way to prepare students for the future. Music theory helps to teach computational thinking.
In this article we will explore seven reasons why:
1. Music theory teaches you to break down problems into smaller pieces.
When you’re learning a new musical concept, you have to break it down into smaller pieces in order to understand it. This is the same process as decomposing a problem in CT. By breaking down a problem into smaller pieces, you can better understand it and find a solution.
2. Music theory teaches you to identify patterns.
In music, patterns are everywhere, from the way a melody is constructed to the way chords are built. Therefore understanding patterns is essential to understanding music theory. This skill is also essential in CT. By identifying patterns in data, you can make predictions and solve problems.