Dance Education

A critical analysis of local, national and international dance education, pedagogy, curriculum and policy. Focus is placed upon the theories of knowledge that underpin practice and education. Key concepts and practices of dance education that relate to learning theories, curriculums in the schools and the wider community will be explored. Focus is placed on dance education in the context of Physical Education and Arts Curriculums in New Zealand. United States and other international contexts will be considered. This paper will examine the historical, social, cultural and political contexts of dance learning. Students will become familiar with national dance curriculum and the postcolonial and cultural diversity implications. This paper will provide the beginnings of a strong foundation in the theories and practices of dance education and develop skills necessary for teaching dance in an educational context. This course covers the following main topics:

• What is dance education? Who are the pioneers? What is the social history of dance education in Aotearoa/New Zealand?
• Dance in the context of physical education and Aotearoa/ New Zealand
• Critical studies in dance pedagogy and curriculum : What do culture, health, gender, disability and sex have to do with it?
• Teaching philosophy and methods of dance education