Common Course Outline

Catalog Description

Course Description

A comparative study of music and its function within cultures of non-Western countries and various American folk traditions from a listener’s point of view. Cultures surveyed come from India, Indonesia, China, Japan, Africa, Central/Eastern Europe and the Americas. No previous musical experience required. College level reading and writing skills are recommended.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

February, 2025

Outline of Major Content Areas

1. Music and Culture; ethnomusicology; the Elements of Music; Organology
2. North America: Native America
3. Africa: Ewes, Mande, Dagbamba, Shona, BaAka
4. Latin America: Ecuador, Brazil, Caribbean
5. Central/Eastern Europe
6. Asia: Indonesia, China, Japan, and India

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the music and cultures of indigenous people groups throughout the world.
2. Explain the purpose and basic procedures used in the discipline of ethnomusicology
3. Identify specific music examples from different regions of the world.
4. Use terminology of music fundamentals.
5. Apply a basic knowledge of music fundamentals in studying music of the world.
6. Compare and contrast the cultural differences inherent in various parts of the world.
7. Identify the role of music in social, communal, and religious practices in cultures throughout the world.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 6/The Humanities, the Arts, Literature, and Philosophy

The student will be able to:

1. Understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within a historical and social context.
2. Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.
3. Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.

Goal 8/Global Perspectives

The student will be able to:

1. Describe and analyze political, economic, and cultural elements which influence relations of states and societies in their historical and contemporary dimensions.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of cultural, social, religious and linguistic differences.
3. Analyze specific international problems, illustrating the cultural, economic, and political differences that affect their solution.
4. Understand the role of a world citizen and the responsibility world citizens share for their common global future.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

• Written and aural examinations
• Class discussions
• Term paper

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Global Awareness and Diversity

Students will demonstrate an understanding of and respect for human diversity through their words and actions.

Special Information (if any)

None