Module: DAN4101-20 Body in Training 1: The Healthy Dancer

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Luke Antysz

Module Tutor Contact Details: l.antysz@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Body in Training 1 provides you with the opportunity to develop and explore a physical understanding of your body as an expressive tool. It will address your understanding of the role of codified technique within studio-based classwork and will introduce you to a holistic perception of the body through the study of somatic practices, designed to inform and support other areas of your studies. The module will also encourage the consideration of issues regarding dance training; appropriate studio etiquette, safe practice and working productively and reflectively in order to nurture longevity in your movement practice.

2. Outline syllabus:

The focus of this module is to introduce you to physical dance training that will inform your practice throughout the course. You will explore set movement vocabulary from recognised dance techniques, which will help you to build strength, stamina and flexibility. 

An exploration of somatic practices will be combined with a study of the neuro-muscular-skeletal systems and their application to human movement. There will be a focus on the way you inhabit your body and explore methods of whole body consciousness through improvisational inquiry, in order to enhance your body knowledge. There will also be a focus on developing good principles in health and wellbeing (e.g. nutrition for dancers, rest and recovery and safe studio practice).

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module is delivered through regular practical classes in codified technique, somatic practices and fitness and conditioning. There will be some lectures that introduce to you some key principles that will support your experiential learning. The module aims to introduce you to healthy movement practice and etiquette and will include formative feedback in class to engage you in self reflection and evaluation. Practical classes will be monitored and informed through a reflective journal, observations, discussions and tutorials. Teaching and learning will be both progressive and reflective, encouraging evaluation of individual performance, as well as ensuring differentiation. You will be expected to participate in self-directed study in order to continue to develop your skills. 

Dance studios and the virtual environment of Minerva Ultra form the basis of the teaching and rehearsing spaces for this module. Theoretical and practical work is supported by the university library, digital video resources, and the knowledge and experience of tutors and the student cohort. 

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Practical Skills Assessment (equivalent to 3200 words)

• % Weighting: 80%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Presentation (equivalent to 800 words)

• % Weighting: 20%