3.1 Formal learning and pedagogies

Formal learning is typically thought of as being provided by schools, colleges or music service instrumental lessons. Here, knowledge typically lies with the teacher. It is they who define the learning objectives, and structure the teaching and learning (the pedagogy) in order to try to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Learning will tend towards the regulated and systemised.

The success of the teacher is likely to be evaluated in terms of the extent to which the learning objectives are achieved. In formal learning and pedagogy the learning that is to be achieved is often predetermined and often set down in official documents (music national curricular or music exam specifications) or quasi-official documents such as music schemes of work.