Melody
Beads is an interactive learning environment, where kids 6-9 yrs. old
can learn about melodic structure through play. When designing for kids
ages 7-10, designers must be guided by the way kids these ages learn:
direct experience, verbal reflection, making decision, generative use
of direct information. The key element is the 'plan-do-review' (world
bank, ECD programs, 2001). In addition, the "Head Start" project (1965)
introduced several tenets now accepted as basic to programs for this
age group, one of them being learning through play, and involving parents
and communities.
| The
software prototype (currently designed for a desktop computer) includes
four main sections, designed to be different learning environments
and suitable for different stages in the learning process. |
|
1.
The Melody Chain Machine - an open constructivist
environment where kids can build their own melody chains, create new
melody beads, and learn through trial and error.
2.
Games - a more structured and guided learning
environment where kids play specific games that tech them different
skills and musical concepts. When making an error the users/learners
get informative feedback on how to get it right next time.
3.
Community - an on-line users community where
kids can post their self-created melody chains, view and vote for other
kids' music, and trade melody beads.
4.
Help - A completly structured learning environment that guides the users
step by step through the learning process.
Theoretical
Background
The Design
Design
Process 
