| The Purpose. The purpose of the study was to examine undergraduate music programs in institutions of higher learning in Taiwan. Based on the understanding of Taiwan's cultural context, and the discussion of various educational curricular models developed and implemented in the United States, suggestions and options have been presented for possible revisions of music curricular offerings in Taiwan's higher education.;Reviewing contemporary U.S. educational development in higher education, the researcher pointed out each educator's philosophy toward current higher education, and listed some of the model curricula developed and implemented in various universities and colleges in the U.S.;The Findings. The music programs offered in Taiwan now are similar in course content in that they tend to emphasize music performance. The competitiveness in performing arts denied many graduates career opportunities. Graduates tend to pursue graduate work abroad in the United States or Europe. The society of Taiwan needs managerial, technical, and administrative personnel in music/arts related fields. There are difficulties in finding properly trained staff to fill these positions.;Recommendations. Music departments in Taiwan were categorized into three groups. Each of the groups represents a different approach to higher education in music: (1) A teachers college music education, producing music teachers at the secondary level. (2) A performance program, monitoring individual student's talent development in his/her chosen medium. Emphasis is placed upon training of professional performers. (3) An open-elective approach to music education. This inter-disciplinary program encourages students to explore disciplines outside music, and to integrate that additional educational experience with music.;The Procedure. Examining current undergraduate music programs in Taiwan by studying catalogues, brochures, annual educational reports from various music departments, and personal interviews were conducted in assessing pertinent information needed for the study. There are a total of six music departments in Taiwan's higher education. Two are government supported institutions, and the remaining four are private. Information on educational philosophies, objectives, content of curriculum, faculty, libraries and facilities, and extra curricular activities of each music department are individually discussed. Distribution of courses are represented in table form.;This study suggests innovative approaches and new directions to Taiwan's music education. Future research on designing model curricula in music programs at both undergraduate and graduate level is encouraged. |
