Introduction to the Fundamental Principles of Contemporary Dance

Course description

The aims of the module are a) artistic and aesthetic education through the art of dance and b) understanding the importance and value of practical experience and its affect in the learning process. The objectives are formulated as follows: a) to allow students to experience and understand the structure and function of the moving body, b) to develop their sensory perception and in particular kinesthesia and c) explore creatively the qualities and dynamics of movement.

Learning outcomes

Students will develop understanding of how the moving body functions and how it can be expressive regardless abilities and skills. At the end of the module students will be able to improvise, analyse and compose dance. 

Assessment

Teaching and learning take place in practical classes, workshops, performances, lectures, screenings, demonstrations, small group discussions and one-to-one tutorials. Examination regulations apply to a) in-class assessments and coursework, such as compositional skills, teaching techniques skills/didactic, presentations and class structure (plan for class based on creative dance) and b) exams where students submit written assignments and/or portfolios

Teaching methods

The development of the experiences and knowledge of the students is based on ideomotor principles of the movement for the improvement of the posture and the neuromuscular coordination, in modern dance techniques, with emphasis on improvisation, as well as the teaching of simple motor combinations, which will be creatively edited individually or in collaboration.