The Use and Effectiveness of Digital Tools in Elementary Music Education: A Systematic Review

Digital tools, referring to a wide range of hardware and software, are increasingly integrated into music education due to advancements in technology and growing accessibility. This trend is evident in an increasing number of teachers utilizing digital tools in their classrooms and a growing body of studies examining how these tools can support children's learning. In elementary school-related studies, the primary objective of using digital tools is to increase student engagement, which in turn can support the development of musical skills and learning motivation. This systematic review evaluates the current state and effectiveness of interventions in this field. A total of 2,382 records were identified, with 15 studies meeting the inclusion criteria (e.g., studies from peer-reviewed journals, including at least one digital tool, and focusing on elementary students). These studies examined outcomes such as musical performance, music theory skills, creativity, and proficiency in digital tool use. Most studies reported positive effects of using digital tools on musical skills. In several studies, the interventions not only improved measured musical skills but also had significant impacts on motivation and engagement. To assess the trustworthiness of these interventions, the review conducted a comprehensive critical appraisal of their methodological designs. The findings revealed that all studies exhibited certain limitations in their study designs, which undermined the strength of the available evidence. This review highlights the variety of interventions, measurement approaches, and outcomes in this field, acknowledging the challenges of this diversity in drawing overall conclusions. It highlights the necessity of rigorously designed interventions in future studies and provides valuable insights into the effective and broader application of digital tools in elementary music education.