Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on both the teacher's and the student's physical, intellectual, and artistic development. It includes numerous exploration activities designed for the dance educator: some focus on reflection through journaling; some on class planning and verbal cueing; and many explore technique concepts experientially through movement. The book considers dance educators to reflect on their teaching practices and to confirm the theoretical and practical knowledge(s) they bring into the classroom. Their past experiences as a dance student are interwoven with their current identity and values as a dance educator. The methods presented are not intended to replace the methods the teacher already uses to teach ballet. They serve as a resource for continued explorations and research in ballet pedagogy. The book also applies the subject-centered teaching-learning model to ballet technique class.