ABSTRACT

This study explores the paradigm shift and evolving landscape of music education in the digital transformation era, aiming to propose future directions for Korean music education by comparing curricula and policies between South Korea and the United States. It first analyzes how digital literacy is embedded in Korea’s 2022 revised music curriculum, then contrasts it with U.S. federal music education policies related to digital innovation. Through this comparison, key policy challenges and future strategies are identified for Korea. The results are as follows. First, for successful advancement of music education in Korea during the digital transformation era, legal and financial policies such as the "well-rounded education" approach introduced under the Obama administration's Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in the U.S. are essential. Second, in order to address the digital divide and infrastructure disparities in schools, Korea should implement regionally customized technology-based music education models, similar to those in the United States. Third, achievement standards by grade level should explicitly incorporate the use of digital tools such as AI, DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations), digital composition tools, and sound design platforms to strengthen students’ digital literacy. Fourth, it is urgent to establish a continuous professional development system for enhancing teachers’ digital competencies.

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