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Title
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Blues & Youths: Self-Determination Theory in the General Music Classroom
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Creator
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Kyle McInnis
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Degree Name
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Master of Arts in Teaching (initial licensure)
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Project Type
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action_research_project
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Date
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6/13/2026
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Abstract
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This action research project investigates the efficacy of utilizing blues music as a vehicle for incorporating elements of Self-Determination Theory and Social Emotional Learning in the general music classroom. The study explores how musical composition, improvisation, and group work can be leveraged to both reinforce core SEL competencies as well as improve student motivation and engagement. This study is grounded in the theoretical work of Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, as well as music educators Edward L. Varner and Rachel D. Sanguinetti. Teacher reflections, student self-assessments, Cooperating Teacher observations, and video footages were analyzed using qualitative research methods. Three main themes emerged: Student choice leading to unpredictable results, inconsistent correlation between engagement and proficiency, and individuals connecting to their lived experience. The research suggests that Self-Determination Theory has the potential to increase student motivation and engagement. Keywords: Self-Determination Theory, Social Emotional Learning, blues, improvisation, composition, student engagement, student motivation, music education, general music, elementary music.
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Keywords
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Portland
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Oregon
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Keyboards
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Committee Member
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Amy Bowden
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Mari Schay
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Rights
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Western Oregon University Library has determined, as of 07/27/2026, this item is in copyright, which is held by the author. Users may use the item in accordance with copyright limitations and exceptions, including fair use. For other uses, please ask permission from the author.
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https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en
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License
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CC-BY-NC-SA
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https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
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Language
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eng
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Type
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text
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Image;StillImage
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data
