As we gain experience in teaching, it's natural to occasionally slip into autopilot mode. Just like our students, we can find ourselves coasting, zoning out, or getting distracted. It happens—we’re human. But as teachers, our primary responsibility is to inspire excitement for learning and ignite the passion for progress in our students. Being present means more than just physically showing up; it’s about engaging fully with enthusiasm and a desire to grow and learn alongside our dancers.
Our goal is to prepare dancers with a deep understanding of their craft, both physically and mentally. Sometimes, we need to shake things up in class—not only for our students but for ourselves, too. This keeps us alert, engaged, and challenged. We must also recognize that learning technique is a journey, with moments of rapid progress interspersed with slower, steady development.
Here are some strategies to help both you as the teacher and your students stay mindful and engaged. Small adjustments to your teaching approach can have a big impact on their learning. The more they learn, the better they retain, and the more they retain, the more progress they’ll make!
Your Positioning:
Traditionally, standing in front of the class is the default teaching position, but where you stand in the room is crucial. A good teacher moves around the space—walking through the class, standing in different corners, and shifting positions—this keeps the energy dynamic and allows you to engage with all the dancers, not just those at the front. Moving through the room gives you different perspectives to observe, correct, and provide feedback. It also motivates those who tend to hide in the back because you’re coming to them, giving you the opportunity to observe their technique from new angles. Sitting at the front of the room can be fine occasionally, but varying your approach keeps both you and your students alert.
Their Positioning:
Similarly, the placement of your dancers in class matters. Many dancers tend to stick to the same spot, whether at the barre, in the center, or while moving across the floor. Encourage them to switch things up. This is about breaking out of comfort zones, both for them and for you. Those who typically stay in the back should be encouraged to step forward and take charge, while in center work, move away from the mirror. Not every exercise should face forward. Allow dancers to work facing away from the mirror or in any direction they choose. This forces them to focus on their own technique rather than relying on the reflection of others. While this might feel uncomfortable for some at first, it’s a valuable tool that will help them become more confident in their abilities.
Recognize Different Learning Styles:
Every student learns in their own way. Some are visual learners, others prefer tactile correction, and some grasp concepts through auditory cues. As a teacher, it’s important to consider these different learning styles. Incorporate a mix of approaches into your lessons to give all students a chance to learn in the way that suits them best. Reflect on your own teaching style—do you tend to rely on one specific method of communication? Try to mix it up and see if you notice any improvement in how your students engage with the material. You’ll likely see a positive shift!
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