Arts
At Dance Education Canada we know how important dance pedagogy is. We consider a thorough and in-depth knowledge of dance pedagogy just as or even more important than a teachers experience in technical skill. It does not matter what you are teaching, whether it be a sport, art form or subject in school, if the teacher is not able to reach the students, then learning cannot happen. Today’s conversation supports our vision and passion for the study of dance pedagogy. It puts the student first. Instead of more traditional approaches to teaching dance that involve a teacher standing at the front of the studio and teaching in a teacher centered learning environment, the learner and the way they learn becomes the focus for lesson planning, goal setting and progressions. Susannah’s research on brain-based dance pedagogy connects the fields of neuroscience and dance education, to support a dancer centered learning environment. GUEST: Susannah “Sukie” Keita has spent equal portions of her career as a public-school educator, college professor, and performing artist. A student of the Joffrey tradition, she broadened her palette in New York City before traveling westward to dance and choreograph with regional companies including Orts Theatre of Dance and New Articulations. She earned an MFA at the University of Arizona and then became a certified instructor of the Dunham Technique, which guided her work as a dance educator in public schools. She later led the Dance Department at Grand Canyon University from 2010-2020, establishing two successful dance degree programs. She resides in Phoenix where she continues to write, teach, dance, choreograph, and consult through @SukieDance, as well as serve on the Arizona Dance Education Organization and as chair with the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification. INSTA: @sukiedance Disclaimer: Any and all ideas and information presented in the following podcast are those of the presenter. The presenter is not an employee or representative of Dance Education Canada (DEC), and is participating in this podcast on a voluntary basis. The ideas and information they express do not necessarily represent the views of the DEC or its partners, employees or affiliates. The ideas and information expressed herein are for general educational purposes only. They should not necessarily be applied to specific individual situations. DEC recommends consulting an expert or professional regarding specific medical, legal or business concerns. DEC makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content. Please note that Canada's National Academy of Dance Education is now operating as Dance Education Canada.