Top educator uses Wii to teach music

Helen Krofchick, the music teacher at DobyÕs Mill Elementary in Lugoff, helps Jasmine Sannicolas put the wii controller strap on her wrist. Krofchick is one of some 40 or 50 music teachers naionwide who was selected to use the wii music digital instrument and player to help teach music. - Tim Dominick/tdominick@thestate.

Children in a South Carolina elementary-school music class are playing simulated instruments using the Wii video gaming system as part of a pilot program in place in 70 schools nationwide. "It is highly motivating and has a high interest value. The students are able to interact immediately with a system that encapsulates visual, aural, physical -- fine and gross motor skills -- and emotional reactions and responses," said Helen Krofchick, who is a National Board Certified music teacher. The State (Columbia, S.C.)