ACE – A Music Creation Engine to Improve Algebra Readiness

  In a previous a previous project, the developer created an online platform that uses songs to support mathematical learning. In the Phase I project in 2020, the team developed a prototype that guides students in creating and producing their own music videos about algebra. The prototype includes a video production application, a framework for students to compose mathematical songs, and a mode to present videos. At the end of Phase, the researchers completed a pilot study with 42 middle students and three teachers in grade 9 classrooms. The prototype operated as intended as students were able to use the song creation engine and the teacher was able to implement a lesson in the classroom. Results demonstrated that 70% of students liked doing song writing activities and indicated that the prototype was easy to use, and 60% reported that the experience was fun and would recommend the intervention to peers as a way to learn math. Students made suggestions to improve the prototype, including providing better instructions on how to save their work in progress and to have an option to conceal their own voice. The three teachers all rated the prototype as easy-to-use and a good way for students to demonstrate their understanding of math content — especially at the end of a unit.