This week we look at the specification and rules regarding the recording process for Component 1. I think a lot of people will be conflicted with today’s video as it puts into scrutiny weather a centre should get their students to record the same song for all students or get each student to record a different song each.
After talking to the exam board, here are my thoughts and the process that I will be following this coming year.
Here’s the discussion that sparked this conversation
COMMENT: Although you are saying to get all students recording the same song, I just wondered what your thoughts were on the exam reports saying:
“With regard to song choice, many centres had clearly encouraged candidates to make independent song choices, and this approach is to be applauded. It is highly recommended that centres insist that all candidates record a different song, which negates any possibility of file sharing malpractice, either deliberate or inadvertent, and also stops the ‘production
line’ approach that some centres seem to favour where all candidates record the same song with often identical microphone setups in group recording sessions. Teachers should look carefully at the guidelines set out on pages 13-14 of the specification document in relation to this practice.”
RESPON
As it currently stands, the specification is clear, and states, that all students should be responsible for every part of the Component 1 Recording project and that teachers should make every effort to make sure that students do not copy or share any part of their work including microphone setup. However, the specification doesn’t say that students can’t all record the same song.
The main issue I have with getting every student to record different songs is that it always results in needing a massive amount of my time to prepare the materials and musicians to get ready for the recording sessions.
QUESTION TO EXAMINERS: “If a centre follows the rules set out in the specification, e.g. all students are responsible for their recordings from start to mastering, but all students record the same song, will they be penalised for this decision?”
EXAMINERS RESPONSE: “If a student is responsible for their entire recording then this meets specification requirements. If a centre has all candidates record the same song but they are all in sole charge then that would be fine and there wouldn’t be any penalty. However, there is obviously a greater opportunity for malpractice to occur.”
