KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
the internet but unfortunately much of it is irrelevant , not credible , or inaccurate . Refine your search through the use of specific and carefully-selected keywords and use your imagination to find what you are looking for . The same keywords can yield different results in the various search engines . Also note that many websites use ineffective search engine optimization , so sometimes the best resources are hard to find . Check the paid listings as well as the organic listings .
Search YouTube for videos on any subject and find everything imaginable on Wikipedia .
Industry Associations Music , music industry , and pro audio associations often provide complete lists of their members online , some of which are education-related facilities and online resources . Visit www . schoolmusictools . com .
Trade Shows Trade shows often have exhibitors that are education-related , in addition to educational programming for attendees . Even if you don ’ t attend the show , you can find a list of exhibitors on their website with contact information . Most trade shows also have free apps that you can download . To find trade shows worldwide , visit www . nor . com / events .
Magazines Magazines contain advertising and editorial content on educational resources . Most have digital editions , informational websites , and apps as well . Search for “ List of music magazines ” on Wikipedia .
Directories Print directories often have listings of educational resources . They can be purchased in bookstores , music stores , and online . Online directories list educational resources and make it easy to visit their website and get in contact with them . For Canadian listings , visit MDC Online at www . musicdirectorycanada . com .
Word of Mouth Speak to people who are involved in your area of interest to get their advice and comments . Students who have attended or are currently attending a school you are interested in are a reliable source of input . Attend relevant events and network with event organizers , exhibitors , seminar presenters , and attendees . Check out Ten Thousand Coffees at www . tenthousandcoffees . com to network with successful professionals in your desired area of interest .
Introducing students to music early on is key .
order to benefit from the career experience of their members . Get involved and don ’ t be afraid to ask questions .
Putting together an educational plan is a daunting task in itself . First , decide on your areas of interest , identify which sources of information will serve you best , and then do the research to make the most informed choices . The good news is that there ’ s an abundance of information available ; of course , that is the challenge as well .
Free isn ’ t always best . Look for good value and keep in mind the quality of the information and the importance of your time . Many people learn better in a structured environment , such as a classroom setting .
Get started now . Remember that an effective program of life-long learning is one of the keys to success in any field , and is comprised of a balance between knowledge and experience .
Studying at the secondary level sets you up for all kinds of opportunities .
Social Media Search Facebook , LinkedIn , and Twitter to check out sources you are interested in . You will discover other people ’ s experiences and their comments – positive or negative . You can ask questions to get valuable feedback . There are also many groups on sites like Facebook and LinkedIn dedicated to certain topics that you can join in
Jim Norris is the Publisher of Canadian
Musician magazine and an experienced teacher and seminar presenter .
Some of the definitions contained in this article were sourced through Wikipedia and Dictionary . com .
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