An Investigation of Field-based Experiences for Pre-service Music Teachers in Massachusetts:Implications for Policies and Strategies Governing Field-based Experiences for Music Teacher Candidates in the Republic of Korea

ABSTRACT

In order to explore implications for improvement in Korean field-based experiences for pre-service music teachers, this study investigated policies governing these experiences in music teacher training and their implementation in Massachusetts. Content analysis revealed that music teacher candidates in that state must choose two different grade levels and work at least 300 hours in the field. Tito University in Massachusetts required close to 500 hours of works, far surpassing the state’s minimum. Interviews revealed that pre-service music teachers were able to apply to practice what they had learned through coursework. Still, they wanted additional field-based experiences. This investigation revealed that the Korean regulations for field-based experiences during teacher training need further guidelines.