The impact of digitalization on professional music education in the context of Z Generation’s mentality

Abstract

Introduction . The digitalization of higher education isirreversible and has both positive and negative aspects. In our opinion, the impact of digitalization on professional music education, particularly on Generation Z students, has not been sufficiently studied. This research is based on theauthor’s personal experience in applying digital technologies in teaching specialized music disciplines and has a practical focus. To objectify the research data, we conducted interviews with both the faculty of the Department of Musical Art and students studying in the 53.02. (01-06) fields. Purpose setting. Comprehension the experience of digitalization of professional music education and development of recommendations for reforming educational programs, taking into account the cognitive and behavioral characteristics of Generation Z students. Methodology and methods of the study. The research methodology is a systematic approach that combines phenomenological and empirical methods, allowing for a comprehensive approach to solving the set tasks. The work also uses the SWOT analysis method to identify potential risks associated with the global digitalization of education in the field of culture and the arts. Results . During research, strong and weak points of music education digitalization have been found, as well as identified possible risks from the ill-conceived use of digital technologies in the education of professional musicians. The digitalization of music education has a number of positive aspects that should be included in the curriculum. But this requires the improvement of the qualifications of the teaching staff in the field of information and communication technologies. At the same time, it cannot be denied that the block of specialized disciplines should maintain traditional teaching methods. Especially it is important in those disciplines that involve individual lessons those as: Real face-to-face interactions with tutors that are essential for acquiring the necessary practical skills. Especially for Gen Z students who face challenges in communication and socialization. Conclusion . Despite the increasing role of distance education, traditional forms of training professional musicians should be  preserved.