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Listening Technology Over Time

Student Resources

Listening Technology over Time Part I: 1900s – 1970s

explores the history of the gramophone, record player, transistor radio, and 8-track player. Students will observe, analyze, and evaluate the design and functionality of a 1917 Victor Talking Machine gramophone and an 8-track player, and they will hear music from Country Music Hall of Fame member Charley Pride. Students will also learn how science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics intersect to create one of the most influential radio stations in Nashville, TN.

Listening Technology over Time Part II: 1980s – 2010s

explores the history of the Walkman (cassette player), boombox, Discman (CD player), and iPod (mp3 player). Students will observe, analyze, and evaluate the design and functionality of a boombox, including how to make a mix tape. Students will observe all devices from Part I and II on a timeline and draw conclusions on how and why listening technology changed over time.