Developing a consensus -driven, core competency model to shape future audio engineering technology curriculum: A web-based modified Delphi study

Abstract

The purpose of this online study was to create a ranking of essential core competencies and technologies required by AET (audio engineering technology) programs 10 years in the future. The study was designed to facilitate curriculum development and improvement in the rapidly expanding number of small to mediumsized audio engineering technology programs hosted at 4-year universities in the United States.

A panel of audio experts and industry leaders were selected as a purposive sample and an online, modified Delphi methodology was employed. The panel ranked the competencies necessary for undergraduate audio students to be successful in the audio industry after graduating from a 4-year program in 2020. They also identified essential technologies needed by administrators of AET programs. The 3-round process produced 160 competencies that can be used by AET administrators to construct future curriculum for audio engineering technology programs.

Eight primary conclusions were reached: (1) competencies needed by future AET graduates are multi-disciplinary with unique educational needs; (2) communication/leadership/other competencies are essential for future AET graduate; (3) practical skills should be balanced with, and at times, take priority over, theoretical content in future AET curricula; (4) the AET student must be offered several internship and mentorship opportunities to develop competencies; (5) traditional business and music business, music, and MIDI competencies are important, but should be purposefully limited in the scope of AET curriculum; (6) the AET graduate must develop basic trouble shooting skills and basic electronics competencies; (7) the audio industry should begin developing and promoting a standardized curriculum and accrediting body; and (8) technologies needed to teach future AET curriculum are identifiable.