Understanding the Potential of Music Learning Application as a Tool for Learning and Practicing Musical Skills

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of mobile applications that are developed to assist music learners in learning and practicing musical skills. Specifically, it attempts to shed light on the affordances of such mobile applications in elevating guitar skill learning among guitar players. This paper presents case studies of four guitar players who have used a mobile application namely “Yousician” to facilitate their guitar learning and practicing process. Findings of this study are drawn upon an investigation into their uses of the mobile application over a practicing period of one week. The study will also provide insights on the characteristics of such application from the music learners’ perspectives. It is also anticipated that findings from this study could contribute towards the understanding of the characteristics of mobile-based music applications that could potentially assist music learners in informal learning environments.