Systematic Integration of 4C Skills in Music Education in the 21st Century

Abstract

21st-century skills are critical for China and the world today. This study examines the development of the 4C skills—critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration—in music education. Through an extensive search of music education-related materials, special attention was given to the effectiveness and value of the current music education system and its reform programs and implementation. In the context of education, the 4C skills of the 21st century are recognized as key factors in students' future workplace success. This study focuses on an in-depth examination of methods for integrating 4C skills theory with music practice. The analysis revealed that the current research methodology in music education is too homogeneous, especially regarding the integration of music education with the 4C skills of the 21st century, with most studies biased towards exploring a single skill. However, this study emphasizes the importance of integrating critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration into music education, demonstrating that the integration of these skills can significantly improve students' musical literacy, promote the overall development of their basic competencies, and highlight the critical role of arts education in students' overall educational experience. Methodologically, this study adopts a systematic approach to sort out and analyze research related to the development of 4C skills in music education in the 21st century, focusing mainly on descriptive analysis. This approach reflects the current status and value of music education reform and lays the foundation for future development. The final findings show that by systematically analyzing studies related to 4C skills in music education in the 21st century, these skills can not only significantly improve students' musical literacy and performance ability but also effectively promote the progress of music education. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of arts education for students' overall development, providing useful insights for future music education reform and practice.