WOMEN MAKING MUSIC
Professor: Dr. J. Michele Edwards
Music
51:01 Spring 2001
ACADEMIC JOURNALS
About the journal
An academic journal is a place
for self-examination, speculation, and discussion of ideas—your own and those
of others. It is an opportunity for
dialogue with yourself. It is, however,
not the same as a personal journal, which can be strictly for yourself
and cover any topic. Your academic
journal should be focused toward this course, and I will also see it. However, I hope you will write primarily for
yourself. Use the journal to record
responses to readings, music listening, and preparation for class
discussions. Make summaries or analyze
some music. Try making connections between the ideas from class/readings and
music you listen to or related experiences.
I hope the journal will offer you the opportunity to write frequently
about music and with fewer constraints than in formal papers.
What & when to write
Rather than specifying a length
or frequency of writing, I am asking you to write on a regular basis and
primarily as preparation for class discussions. I hope this will enhance your understanding
of material and stretch your ability to deal with ideas. Occasionally, you may want to continue class
discussion in the journal. Journal
writing related to guest or student presentations would obviously come after
the event. Sometimes I will ask
everyone to write on a particular topic (please see syllabus for some of
these). Be ambitious! Ponder thoughtfully; then write.
Evaluation
If you deal regularly and
effectively with the materials for class in the journal (including the assigned
topics), you will receive a B on the journal. If entries show strong evidence of grappling with issues, of a
quest for understanding, and/or of effort to develop and support views, you
will receive an A on the journal.
I will ask to see your journal four times during the semester and will
dialogue with you and make comments.
Writing style
I will be concerned with your
ability to explain and present your ideas rather than with the formality or
technical precision of your writing. Use language that expresses your personal
voice—language that comes naturally to you.
Even when single answers do not exist, some positions are more fully
explained and supported than others. Do
not merely tell what you believe; also tell why you believe it. Ask questions and move toward answers. Develop your thoughts as fully as possible.
Format
Wordprocess or type all
entries. Please include the date on
each entry.
Final entry
For the final entry of the
semester, write an evaluation of the journal and its worth to you.
Due Dates
February
21, March 12, April 16, May 7
Women Making Music
Last updated on 29 January
2001