Teaching Philosophy

 

         Upon reflection, I notice that my dance teachers play a major role in the person I am today. Growing up, I was both nurtured and challenged in the dance studio, learning to be a leader who cares for those around her. Because of these experiences, I want students to not only feel challenged, but to have fun when I teach. Through this enjoyable, yet structured class, students learn how to concentrate on their technique in a positive way, benefitting them in all aspects of life.

         When finding a balance between being fun and assertive, I teach my students to pair a professional focus with smiles and occasional laughs. This dynamic encourages my students to find lighthearted moments amid long, serious classes and rehearsals. I also prepare and determine concepts for my classes that bridge one dance step to another. Not only does this preparation demonstrate respect toward my students, but it helps my students better understand the connections between dance movements. 

         After experimenting with my own learning styles and witnessing my brother determine the best way to learn with ADHD, I believe superb teachers must adapt their teaching mechanisms to that of the students. As a result, I teach students based on the way they learn most efficiently. To elaborate, I will count, sing, or “bum, bum, bum” sounds to teach musicality. I also explain and demonstrate steps or corrections in several ways to accommodate for all learning styles. 

         When teaching, it is pertinent that I teach my students to arrive early, ask questions, hold themselves accountable, and be leaders to strengthen their skills for situations both in and outside of the dance world. To instill these leadership skills upon my students, I provide opportunities to make decisions for themselves through class exercises and dance captain or rehearsal assistant positions.

As a teacher, I seek to formulate an inclusive dance space for people of all backgrounds, body types, ethnicities, genders, religions, and more. To this end, I remain an avid reader of various texts that allow me to reflect, challenge, and improve my understandings of sociocultural topics in society. Within my classes, I will incorporate history lessons that emphasize the diverse origins of dance. My dancers will also train in multiple of styles to learn the techniques and roots of more than just one dance genre.  

         Lastly, an important aspect of my teaching philosophy is communication. I believe it is imperative that I cultivate a healthy learning environment where my students maintain the opportunity to disclose information with me that may affect their learning process, such as their injuries or shifts in mood. 

         Throughout my time thus far as both a student and teacher, I observe that these philosophies are most important to me. I am excited to see what the future holds and look forward to developing my personal philosophy as I continue to learn more about the art of teaching.