Philosophy of Teaching

In life there are a wide range of challenges, victories, and aspects to be taken into consideration. In dance, concepts that are student-centered create the best learning experiences. Adele Diamond’s research shows executive functions in education “allow students to problem solve, use self-control, and adjust to new information” and EF's increase through music and dance activities that foster a feeling of group inclusion.

Reflecting on and discussing what students feel help to understand what they are learning. Improvised and prescribed sequences in a class create new neural pathways. Mindfulness and reflection in dance rewire the brain to optimize potential and can help students take control of their thoughts. Integrating continuous reflection tools for the mind can reinforce physical movements into basic understandings of the body.

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Using Reflective theory prompts students to use a critical mindset to look at and understand dance, in class or outside of the classroom. Reflecting on movement doesn't always need to be verbal, whether it be drawing, writing, music or a combination of methods and can be very useful to students taking the movement a step further and examining the feelings it evokes and reasons why.

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Creating a positive learning environment which includes establishing a set of expectations and mutual respect between teacher and student is important for the students' success. Building trust and respect helps students to feel like they have responsibility and reasons to be motivated and on task in class. Working towards a common goal together can be an invigorating experience. In a classroom where students feel safe and supported, students can express their individuality. Students excel when they feel they are valued and welcome in the classroom.

Teaching dance is not only about understanding how others might approach the same material from a different mindset, but also about pushing past comfort zones while being supportive of different learning processes, and is the relationship aim to foster between myself and my students.