Dear Readers:
This issue provides articles and columns on a diverse range of topics that I hope will inspire you with examples of the extraordinary work our colleagues are doing in dance education. We begin with the Trends column by Miriam Giguere in which she provides support for writing statements of teaching philosophy. She asks meaningful questions and gives examples of how to make your statement unique to you.
The first article, “The Importance of Inclusion in Dance,” by Megan Jayroe and Lauren Morris, provides strategies for teaching students of all ages and abilities based on the authors’ work at their dance studio. They provide multifaceted dance education in an inclusive, supportive, and joyful environment.
In the next article, “Contemporary Dance: Examining Limitations and Expanding Pedagogy,” Parisha Rajbhandari advocates for an expansive approach to the teaching of contemporary dance that honors multiple dance forms and cultures, instead of the common prioritization of Western dance forms. With background information and concrete examples, Rajbhandari shares her philosophical stance along with her work in teaching contemporary dance.
The last article of the issue, “Flying on the Heels of Tap Shoes: Aerial Filming of Dance Performance,” by Neil Dunn and Julie Pentz, details a project that used a drone to document a tap dance performance choreographed by Pentz. Dunn edited the drone footage and then disseminated the completed project to their college dance community. This was an innovative strategy devised during COVID-19 restrictions, but this process could be useful as a guide for future digital dance projects.
Our NDEO Works column by Susan McGreevy-Nichols and Marissa Finkelstein closes out the issue. The column discusses the new ways that NDEO and various collegiate chapters of NHSDA are honoring, motivating, and supporting undergraduate and graduate students in collaboration, community, and promotion of dance education.
Dance Education in Practice is for dance educators by dance educators. Please consider submitting an article about your innovative practices. All articles are mentored by one of the members of our editorial board who work with writers one-on-one and provide supportive feedback.
Executive Editor, Dance Education in Practice
Professor and Head of Dance, Montclair State University
[email protected]