Integrating Deep Pedagogical Learning into Project-Based Learning to Enhance Students’ Musical Intelligence

Antonius Edi Nugroho; Bagus Susetyo; Irfanda Rizki Harmono Sejati; Asep Purwo Yudi Utomo

doi:10.37680/qalamuna.v18i2.9685

Authors

Antonius Edi Nugroho Universitas Negeri Semarang
Bagus Susetyo Universitas Negeri Semarang
Irfanda Rizki Harmono Sejati Universitas Negeri Semarang
Asep Purwo Yudi Utomo Universitas Negeri Semarang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37680/qalamuna.v18i2.9685

Keywords:

Deep Pedagogical Learning; Musical Intelligence; Music Education; Project-Based Learning; Choir

Abstract

Deep learning in this study refers to a pedagogical orientation toward conceptual understanding, reflective inquiry, meaningful connection, and transfer, rather than artificial-intelligence-based deep learning. This study examined whether embedding this orientation within Project-Based Learning (PjBL) could strengthen students’ musical intelligence through a choir project at SMA Negeri 1 Brebes. This research used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, which included a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest. There were 25 students in the experimental group and 25 students in the control group for comparison purposes, followed by interviews, observation, and documentation. The average score for the experimental group on the posttest was much higher (M = 91.52) compared to the control group (M = 82.08), indicating a significant statistical difference between the two groups (p < .001). Qualitative evidence explained these gains through four interconnected changes: more accurate vocal performance, stronger understanding of song structure, greater interpretive sensitivity to harmony and expression, and more purposeful collaboration. The findings indicate that PjBL becomes pedagogically deeper when project completion is accompanied by structured analysis, feedback, reflection, and interpretation. The study recommends process-based assessment in music projects so that artistic products are evaluated together with the depth of students’ musical reasoning and reflective engagement.

References

Abi, M. A., Langgu, P. R., & Ukat, G. V. (2026). The Effect of Understanding Musical Elements on The Music Analysis Skills of 11 th Grade Students in Music Classes. Jurnal Penelitian Musik, 7(1), 12–20. http://journal.unj.ac.id/unj/index.php/pm/12

Almulla, M. A. (2020). The Effectiveness of the Project-Based Learning (PBL) Approach as a Way to Engage Students in Learning. SAGE Open, 10(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244020938702

Amila NKK Gamage. (2025). A comparative analysis of qualitative and mixed methods research: Strengths, limitations, and practical applications. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25(3), 2040–2046. https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2025.25.3.0947

Andayani, E., Mustikowati, R. I., Wahyu, S., Setiyowati, & Firdaus, R. M. (2022). Case method: Mengoptimalkan critical thinking, creativity communication skills dan collaboratively mahasiswa sesuai MKKM di era abad 21. Jurnal Penelitian Dan Pendidikan IPS (JPPI), 16(1), 52–60. https://ejournal.unikama.ac.id/index.php/JPPI/article/view/6973/3460

Azzahra, Y., & Jaya, C. A. (2025). Pendekatan Deep Learning: Transformasi Mindful, Meaningful, dan Joyful dalam Pembelajaran Holistik. Journal of Basic Educational Studies, 5(3), 769.

Bagus Susetyo, & Edi Nugroho, A. (2023). Pembentukan Kreativitas Siswa melalui Metode Project Based Learning di SMP Regina Pacis Surakarta. Musikolastika: Jurnal Pertunjukan Dan Pendidikan Musik, 5(1), 51–61. https://doi.org/10.24036/musikolastika.v5i1.109

Bruin, L., & Merrick, B. (2024). Innovation, inclusion and engagement in a university music course. Technology, Pedagogy and Education, 33, 347–362. https://doi.org/10.1080/1475939X.2024.2324327

Chen, J. C. W. (2024). Mobile learning as deep learning: Content analysis of in-service primary school music teachers’ lesson plans in mobile music creation. International Journal of Music Education, 42(4), 660–673. https://doi.org/10.1177/02557614231191520

Chen, L. (2025). Unlocking the Beat: How AI Tools Drive Music Students’ Motivation, Engagement, Creativity and Learning Success. European Journal of Education, 60(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/ejed.12823

Costes-Onishi, P., & Kwek, D. (2023). Inquiry-based learning in music: Indicators and relationships between key pedagogical practices and the quality of critical thinking. Research Studies in Music Education, 45(2), 362–378. https://doi.org/10.1177/1321103X211057457

Creech, A., Zhukov, K., & Barrett, M. S. (2022). Signature Pedagogies in Collaborative Creative Learning in Advanced Music Training, Education and Professional Development: A Meta-Synthesis. In Frontiers in Education (Vol. 7). Frontiers Media S.A. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2022.929421

Cuervo-Calvo, L., & Cabedo-Mas, A. (2024a). SERVICE-LEARNING AND PROJECT-BASED LEARNING METHODOLOGIES IN HIGHER MUSIC EDUCATION: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE. Bordon. Revista de Pedagogia, 76(3), 35–60. https://doi.org/10.13042/Bordon.2024.99887

Cuervo-Calvo, L., & Cabedo-Mas, A. (2024b). SERVICE-LEARNING AND PROJECT-BASED LEARNING METHODOLOGIES IN HIGHER MUSIC EDUCATION: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE. Bordon. Revista de Pedagogia, 76(3), 35–60. https://doi.org/10.13042/Bordon.2024.99887

da Fonsêca Barros, M. H., & Penna, M. (2023). Problem-based learning (PBL) in music teacher education. International Journal of Music Education, 41(4), 585–597. https://doi.org/10.1177/02557614221130526

Davis, K., Christodoulou, J., Seider, S., & Gardner, H. (2011). The Theory of Multiple Intelligences.

Dean, C., Grossman, P., Enumah, L., Herrmann, Z., & Kavanagh, S. (2023). Core practices for project-based learning: Learning from experienced practitioners in the United States. Teaching and Teacher Education, 133, 104275. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tate.2023.104275

Dillon, J. E. (2023). Project-Based Learning: Toward a World-Centered Music Education. International Journal of Education and the Arts, 24(13). https://doi.org/10.26209/ijea24n13

DongJin, S., & Mohamad Ashari, Z. B. (2024). Project-based Learning in Early Science Education A Systematic Review. International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development, 13(2). https://doi.org/10.6007/ijarped/v13-i2/21365

Farshad, S., & Fortin, C. (2026). An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses on Project-Based Learning: Effects on Academic Achievement, Higher-Order Thinking, and 21st-Century Skills. Educational Research Review, 52, 100809. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2026.100809

Guo, P., Saab, N., Post, L. S., & Admiraal, W. (2020a). A review of project-based learning in higher education: Student outcomes and measures. International Journal of Educational Research, 102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2020.101586

Guo, P., Saab, N., Post, L. S., & Admiraal, W. (2020b). A review of project-based learning in higher education: Student outcomes and measures. International Journal of Educational Research, 102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2020.101586

Handayaningrum, W., Mariati, P., Karoso, S., & Kristiandri, D. (2023). Application of Project-Based Learning Model in Stage Management Course: Global Perspective. Education and Human Development Journal Tahun, 8(3). https://doi.org/10.33086/ehdj.v8i3

Hendry, N., Lynam, D. S., & Lafarge, C. (2022). Singing for Wellbeing: Formulating a Model for Community Group Singing Interventions. Qualitative Health Research, 32(8–9), 1399–1414. https://doi.org/10.1177/10497323221104718

Ilma, A. Z., Wilujeng, I., Widowati, A., Nurtanto, M., & Kholifah, N. (2023). A Systematic Literature Review of STEM Education in Indonesia (2016-2021): Contribution to Improving Skills in 21st Century Learning. Pegem Egitim ve Ogretim Dergisi, 13(2), 134–146. https://doi.org/10.47750/pegegog.13.02.17

Irfan, I., Rokhimawan, M. A., Mastur, S. N., Fajriyani, N. A., Romadhon, K.-, & Paulina, M.-. (2023). IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT-BASED LEARNING (PjBL) ON IPAS LEARNING MATERIALS IN THE MERDEKA CURRICULUM AT MUHAMADIYAH MUJAHIDDIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. Primary: Jurnal Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar, 12(3), 689. https://doi.org/10.33578/jpfkip.v12i3.9754

Kamila, I., Homdijah, O. S., Susetyo, B., & Tarsidi, I. (2026). In-Depth Learning for Students with Deafness in Special Schools: A Literature Study. QALAMUNA: Jurnal Pendidikan, Sosial, Dan Agama, 18(1), 331–346. https://doi.org/10.37680/qalamuna.v18i1.8419

Kapania, M., Savla, J., & Skaggs, G. (2025). Deep Approaches to Learning, Student Satisfaction, and Employability in STEM. Education Sciences, 15(9). https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15091126

Khnnous, M., & Mesbahi, A. (2024). The Role of Music Education in Activating the Theory of Multiple Intelligences in Our Educational Curriculum. International Journal for Research in Education, 48(4), 12–37. https://doi.org/10.36771/ijre.48.4.24-pp12-37

Kibici, V. B. (2022). OPUS Journal of Society Research The Effect of Project-Based Learning Approach on Lesson Outcomes, Attitudes and Retention of Learned in Secondary School Music. OPUS-Journal of Society Research, 19(49), 771–783. https://doi.org/10.26466//opusjsr.1128532

Kovač, V. B., Nome, D., Jensen, A. R., & Skreland, L. L. (2025). The why, what and how of deep learning: critical analysis and additional concerns. Education Inquiry, 16(2), 237–253. https://doi.org/10.1080/20004508.2023.2194502

Krüger Bridge, S. (2026). Children’s experiences of choral singing: evaluating reflexive choir journals with primary school pupils. Music Education Research, 28(1), 3–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/14613808.2025.2565150

Li, J., & Yan, F. (2025). Research on AI Music Teaching Evaluation Model Based on Deep Learning. 2025 International Conference on Digital Analysis and Processing, Intelligent Computation (DAPIC), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1109/dapic66097.2025.00059

Li, M. M., & Tu, C. C. (2024). Developing a Project-Based Learning Course Model Combined with the Think–Pair–Share Strategy to Enhance Creative Thinking Skills in Education Students. Education Sciences, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14030233

Li, P., & Wang, B. (2023). Artificial Intelligence in Music Education. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 40, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1080/10447318.2023.2209984

Li, W., Cui, X., Manoharan, P., Dai, L., Liu, K., & Huang, L. (2025). AI-assisted feedback and reflection in vocal music training: effects on metacognition and singing performance. Frontiers in Psychology, 16. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1598867

Lindblom-Ylänne, S., Parpala, A., & Postareff, L. (2019). What constitutes the surface approach to learning in the light of new empirical evidence? Studies in Higher Education, 44(12), 2183–2195. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2018.1482267

Liu, M. (2021). Research on Music Teaching and Creation Based on Deep Learning. Mobile Information Systems, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/1738104

Liu, Y., Chen, L., & Yao, Z. (2022). The application of artificial intelligence assistant to deep learning in teachers’ teaching and students’ learning processes. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.929175

Liu, Y., Seemuang, J., & Kaenampornpan, P. (2024). Exploring Strategies for Overcoming Teaching Challenges and Enhancing Learning in Music Education. Ijsser, 3(3), 48–52. https://doi.org/10.54660/ijsser.2024.3.3.48-52

Lobczowski, N. G., Lyons, K., Greene, J. A., & McLaughlin, J. E. (2021). Socially shared metacognition in a project-based learning environment: A comparative case study. Learning, Culture and Social Interaction, 30. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lcsi.2021.100543

Marks, E., Moghaddam, N., De Boos, D., & Malins, S. (2023). A systematic review of the barriers and facilitators to adherence to mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for those with chronic conditions. British Journal of Health Psychology, 28(2), 338–365. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjhp.12628

McDaniel, M. A., Wally, C. M., Frey, R. F., & Bates, H. K. (2025a). Individual Differences in Student Learning: A Comparison Between the Student Approaches to Learning and Concept-Building Frameworks. Behavioral Sciences, 15(8). https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081055

McDaniel, M. A., Wally, C. M., Frey, R. F., & Bates, H. K. (2025b). Individual Differences in Student Learning: A Comparison Between the Student Approaches to Learning and Concept-Building Frameworks. Behavioral Sciences, 15(8), 1055. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081055

Merchán Sánchez-Jara, J. F., González Gutiérrez, S., Cruz Rodríguez, J., & Syroyid Syroyid, B. (2024). Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Music Education: A Critical Synthesis of Challenges and Opportunities. Education Sciences, 14(11). https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14111171

Mikly, H., Kawulur, A. F., Manongko, A., & Wantah, E. (2021). Model Pembelajaran Higher Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Di Masa Pandemi Covid 19. Syntax Idea, 3(8), 1847. https://doi.org/10.36418/syntax-idea.v6i8.1409

Nan, J. (2025). Research on the Design and Implementation of Music Teaching from the Perspective of Project-based Learning. Journal of Educational Research and Policies, 7(5), 22–25. https://doi.org/10.53469/jerp.2025.07(05).06

Naseer, F., Khan, M. N., Tahir, M., Addas, A., & Aejaz, S. M. H. (2024). Integrating deep learning techniques for personalized learning pathways in higher education. Heliyon, 10(11). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32628

Nugroho, A. E., & Dewi, S. E. P. (2021). Implementation Of Project Based Learning (PjBL) Method On Music Learning In Junior High School Regina Pacis Surakarta. JURNAL SENI MUSIK . https://journal.unnes.ac.id/sju/index.php/jsm/index

Omelianenko, O., & Artyukhova, N. (2024). PROJECT-BASED LEARNING: THEORETICAL OVERVIEW AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS FOR LOCAL INNOVATION-BASED DEVELOPMENT. Economics & Education, 9(1), 35–41. https://doi.org/10.30525/2500-946x/2024-1-6

Omirali, A., Kozhakhmet, K., & Zhumaliyeva, R. (2025). Digital Trust in Transition: Student Perceptions of AI-Enhanced Learning for Sustainable Educational Futures. Sustainability, 17(17), 7567. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177567

Pendergast, S., & Robinson, N. R. (2020). Secondary Students’ Preferences for Various Learning Conditions and Music Courses: A Comparison of School Music, Out-of-School Music, and Nonmusic Participants. Journal of Research in Music Education, 68(3), 264–285. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022429420931826

Piličiauskaitė, L. J., & Gabnytė Bizevičienė, G. (2025). Learning creative interpretation in the music classroom: the possibilities of the emotional expression method. Creativity Studies, 18(2), 635–649. https://doi.org/10.3846/cs.2025.22736

Pogonowski, L., Bell, C., & Robinson, N. (n.d.). Collective Musical Cognition: Relevance, Dialogue, and Reflection in Group Learning (Vol. 43).

Prajoko, S., Sukmawati, I., Maris, A. F., & Wulanjani, A. N. (2023). PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PJBL) MODEL WITH STEM APPROACH ON STUDENTS’ CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING AND CREATIVITY. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 12(3), 401–409. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v12i3.42973

Pucihar, I. (2025). Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring—phenomenological research on six piano students engaged in interdisciplinary project-based learning. Frontiers in Education, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2025.1636016

Qian, L. (2025). A Study on the Application of Orff-Schulwerk in Vocal Music Enlightenment Education. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.54097/ptsf3j86

Ramadani, L., Suwito, A., Indah Kristiana, A., & Fairuz Firmansyah, F. (2026). Development of STEAM-Based Learning with a Deep Learning Approach to Enhance Critical Thinking Skills on Circle Material. 18. https://doi.org/10.37680/qalamuna.v18i1

Rauduvaitė, A., & Sun, B. (2023). THE CONCEPT OF LEARNING TO LEARN IN THE CONTEXT OF MUSIC EDUCATION. SOCIETY. INTEGRATION. EDUCATION. Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference, 1, 476–490. https://doi.org/10.17770/sie2023vol1.7077

Rehman, N., Zhang, W., Mahmood, A., Fareed, M. Z., & Batool, S. (2023). Fostering twenty-first century skills among primary school students through math project-based learning. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-01914-5

S. A. Sari, K. Saputra, R. S. Dewi, A. Kembaren, H. Hasibuan, & C. A. Talib. (2025). INTEGRATION OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY FLIPBOOKS BASED ON PROJECT-BASED LEARNING IN IMPROVING CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS AND SCIENTIFIC LITERACY TO SUPPORT SDG-4. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 14(1), 59–69.

Samsudin, A., & Liliawati, W. (2022). Effectiveness of Project Based Learning Integrated STEM in Physics Education (STEM-PJBL). 12(1), 120–139.

Sharma, Dr. L. R., Bidari, S., Bidari, D., Neupane, S., & Sapkota, R. (2023). Exploring the Mixed Methods Research Design: Types, Purposes, Strengths, Challenges, and Criticisms. Global Academic Journal of Linguistics and Literature, 5(1), 3–12. https://doi.org/10.36348/gajll.2023.v05i01.002

Smarandache, I. G., Maricutoiu, L. P., Ilie, M. D., Iancu, D. E., & Mladenovici, V. (2022). Students’ approach to learning: evidence regarding the importance of the interest-to-effort ratio. Higher Education Research & Development, 41(2), 546–561. https://doi.org/10.1080/07294360.2020.1865283

Sølvik, R. M., & Glenna, A. E. H. (2022). Teachers’ potential to promote students’ deeper learning in whole-class teaching: An observation study in Norwegian classrooms. Journal of Educational Change, 23(3), 343–369. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10833-021-09420-8

Subiyantoro, S. (2023). Exploring Teachers’ Perspectives on their Role in Facilitating Project-Based Learning: A Comparative Study of Elementary, Middle, and High School. 4, 2973–2980. https://jurnaledukasia.org

Sularso, S., Jazuli, M., Djatiprambudi, D., & Hanshi, B. (2023). Revitalizing Cultural Heritage: Strategies for Teaching Indonesian Traditional Music in Elementary Schools. International Journal of Education and Learning, 5(1), 79–88. https://doi.org/10.31763/ijele.v5i1.1016

Sularso, S., Yu, Q., Pranolo, A., & P, C. H. (2024). Advancing Computer Science in Education: Integrating Digital Music Technology Into Elementary School Music Programs. E3s Web of Conferences, 501, 01019. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202450101019

Sundaravally. (2026). Music Education’s Role in Cognitive and Emotional Development. International Journal of Arts and Liberal Studies (IJALS), 2(2), 41. https://doi.org/10.63090/ijals/3108.1673.0014

Thorgersen, C. F., Johansen, G., & Juntunen, M.-L. (2015). Music Teacher Educators’ Visions of Music Teacher Preparation in Finland, Norway and Sweden. International Journal of Music Education, 34(1), 49–63. https://doi.org/10.1177/0255761415584300

Toyon, M. A. S. (2021). Explanatory sequential design of mixed methods research: Phases and challenges. International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147- 4478), 10(5), 253–260. https://doi.org/10.20525/ijrbs.v10i5.1262

Troglauer, A., & Morrison, A. (2024). Using Chamber Music and Reflection to Foster Student Engagement in Orchestra. Music Educators Journal, 111(1), 50–57. https://doi.org/10.1177/00274321241275616

Uyen, B. P., Tong, D. H., & Ngan, L. K. (2023). Online project-based learning for teacher education during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review. In Contemporary Educational Technology (Vol. 15, Number 3). Bastas. https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/13238

Vina Arie Paramita, M., Setyowahyudi, R., Putu Vivin Indrawati, N., & Drupadi, R. (2026). Implementation of Deep Learning in Project Based Learning on Early Childhood Independence. 18. https://doi.org/10.37680/qalamuna.v18i2.9740

Wang, R., Phokha, P., & Chiangthong, N. (2025). The Development of Teaching Method for Chamber Music Courses in Chinese Comprehensive Universities. Journal of Cultural Analysis and Social Change, 3074–3091. https://doi.org/10.64753/jcasc.v10i3.3638

Winje, Ø., & Løndal, K. (2020). Bringing deep learning to the surface: A systematic mapping review of 48 years of research in primary and secondary education. Nordic Journal of Comparative and International Education, 4(2), 25–41. https://doi.org/10.7577/njcie.3798

Yimei, H. (2019). The Main Methodological Approaches to the Personal-Creative Development of Elementary School Pupils in the Process of Music Education. In Intelligenza Artificiale (Vol. 8, Number 4). Intellectual Archive. https://doi.org/10.32370/IA_2019_12_27

Zhang, G., Siripala, W., Fauziyah, N., Anwar, K., & Suwarno. (2024). Investigating the Development of Chorus Education: Challenges and Potential Strategies in Chorus Educational Institutions. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 23(11), 287–307. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.23.11.15

Zhang, L., & Ma, Y. (2023). A study of the impact of project-based learning on student learning effects: A meta-analysis study. In Frontiers in psychology. frontiersin.org. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1202728

Zhang, S. (2023). Interactive environment for music education: developing certain thinking skills in a mobile or static interactive environment. Interactive Learning Environments, 31(10), 6856–6868. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2022.2049826

Zhao, Y., & Gaikwad, S. (2024). Practical Research on Integrating Folk Art Into Public Art Education Courses. Educ. Insights, 1(4), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.70088/tfnhmp64

Zheng, J., Zhang, Y., & Zhang, S. (2024). Audio-visual aesthetic teaching methods in college students’ vocal music teaching by deep learning. Scientific Reports, 14. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-80640-7

Zou, W., On, T. H., & Sapaso, P. (2024). Exploring the Integration of Chinese Nationalized Piano Education in Modern Music Pedagogy. Ijsser, 3(3), 43–47. https://doi.org/10.54660/ijsser.2024.3.3.43-47