An Examination of Embedding Character Education into the Daily Functions of High School Instrumental Music Ensembles

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of embedding character education into the daily functions of instrumental music ensembles at Franklin High School in Portland Oregon. The participants in the study were the students of the researcher which may have been a delimitation. Their ages were from 14 to 19 years. Students from grades 9-12 were chosen randomly and purposefully by the researcher. There were 26 participants that filled out a research survey entirely via computer. Participants were instructed to type their names at the end of the survey if they were willing to be interviewed by the researcher to explore the questions more deeply. The survey was anonymous except for those that voluntarily added their names to the survey. The findings of the study indicated that participants had clear understanding of the meaning of good character and personal integrity including regard for others, honesty, trustworthiness, reliability, patience, and a cooperative spirit. Participants appeared to have learned that these qualities are necessary for membership in bands and orchestras, as well as willingness to collaborate with peers. Participants also experienced over time that music itself and ensemble membership relieve a considerable amount of the stress that most teens experience. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone [phone]. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]