It's About TI:ME

by George Pinchock

Technology is invading our personal and professional lives at an ever-increasing pace. It seems as if everyday new technology products are introduced to aid us in the teaching of music. New terms are invading our vocabulary and old terms have new meanings. MIDI, link, sequencers, modem, megs, LAN, controller, dot matrix and compression are just a few. It can be a nightmare out there for those trying to learn. The traditional classroom is changing fast and those teachers who do not keep abreast of these changes and advancements will be left behind.

So Why TI:ME?
Because there was a need! A need for an organization that can help teachers stay abreast and up to date. A need for an organization that would foster technology teacher training, develop and promote technological resources and help recognize those individuals who have taken the effort to become competent and even master the uses of technology. TI:ME has done just that!

TI:ME has created programs, aids and resources that can prove valuable to music educators. Probably the most significant resource to date is the publication "The Technology Strategies for Music Education" linking uses of technology to the nine MENC Standards. It shows how technology can be used to enhance the teaching of music. If you use the Internet, and by now you should be "connected," the TI:ME web site (www.ti-me.org) is a wealth of resources and "links" to other music sites including educational institutions and organizations. To recognize the music educator who has become proficient in the use of music technology, TI:ME has created the TI:ME Certification Program which offers graduate courses at institutions across the United States. Teachers successfully completing courses can apply for TI:ME certification. Finally, TI:ME sponsors a National In-Service Conference where educators from across the land can come together to hear the gurus speak, see, touch and sample the latest equipment and otherwise hobnob with the assembled “wizards" of technology.

An organization like the Technology Institute for Music Educators can play an important role in this expanding segment of music education.

For more information about the various projects, goals, and opportunities within the Technology Institute for Music Educators check out www.ti-me.org.

The Technology Institute for Music Educators: Goals and Objectives

1. The Institute will develop standards and materials for in-service teacher training in music technology. The standards will be developed by an Advisory Board comprised of experts in the field of music education, music technology, software developers, and manufacturers.

2. The Institute will develop and publish course materials for music technology in specific areas including MIDI sequencing, notation, computer assisted instruction, and
telecommunications.

3. The Institute will list and define skills required to obtain proficiency in the understanding and use of technology as it is applied to the teaching of music. In addition, the Institute will certify skill levels. Teachers who have gained proficiency in music technology will be awarded certification, and the Institute will maintain records of
certification as evidence of professional growth.

4. The Institute will provide a forum for discussion, research, and develop ment for music educators to improve their understanding and use of technology. Resources include a World Wide Web site, a newsletter, and offering to music educators a yearly membership in the Technology Institute. A bi-annual National Music Education Technology Conference was organized in 1998 to bring together the music education community and the manufacturers, publishers, and developers of software and hardware.

TI:ME Memberships
Individual $35
Student $15

Includes bi-annual newsletter; subscriptions to Keyboard Magazine and Electronic Musician; Membership Directory; discounts on TI:ME publications and conventions; and access to the TI:ME web site.

Library $25
Includes bi-annual newsletter; Membership Directory; discounts on TI:ME publications and conventions; and access to the TI:ME web site.