This study examines how sound awareness can be enhanced among electric guitar students in the third grade of the DKO (part-time arts education). Personal evaluations and research show that students are often unfamiliar with how amplifiers and effects pedals work.

The theoretical framework of this report emphasises that there are four determining factors for the sound of an electric guitar: playing style, instrument characteristics, amplifier settings and effects. Surveys of teachers and students revealed that knowledge of the latter two was insufficient and that this was not given enough attention in guitar lessons.

Based on this, I developed three didactic working methods that were implemented by six different groups at SAMW Tielt.

Analogue didactics (Spaghetti group): Effect pedals are introduced using a pasta metaphor, aimed at beginner students.

Implicit learning: by using other instruments or repertoire in the lesson, the transition to effects is developed gradually.

Image to sound: through improvisation exercises in which the students accompany an astronaut to the planet Saturn, they learn how to use effects pedals to create a variety of atmospheres.

The results show that these teaching methods effectively contribute to sound awareness. The implicit learning and image to sound lessons were particularly well received and led to high results.

This research not only provided new insights but also brought about a pleasant change in teaching practice. Students are more likely to bring their own effects or use the equipment available in the room. The working methods form a basis for further lessons, with the aim of creating a dynamic and meaningful learning environment for both students and teachers.