The effects of the pandemic on music teaching in schools in Quebec (Canada) in the spring and fall of 2020

Abstract

COVID-19 containment measures brought many changes in our lives and forced teachers all around the world to adopt various new practices. Given its specific education requirements and numerous school boards, the province of Quebec, Canada, was chosen to study the effects of the pandemic on music teaching in schools in the spring and fall of 2020. An electronic survey was distributed, to which 517 elementary and high school music teachers responded. Teachers reported on the transformation of teaching modes from an exclusively in-person practice to an online or bimodal approach. Continuation and interruption of music programs varied greatly from school to school and, for those who were allowed musical activities, different protective health measures were implemented. Teachers working with large ensembles (e.g. band and orchestra) experienced more interruptions in their music programs. Teachers also reported how their planning was affected by the new modes of instruction, but no matter which modes were used, most of them experienced less motivation for teaching during the spring of 2020. In addition, they perceived that it was more motivating for students to receive an education in person. Finally, positive outcomes of the pandemic on education included the development of new skills in the use of digital resources and online teaching, as well as a renewed sense of solidarity between teachers.