Module: DAN6206-20 Somatics for Performance, Health and Wellbeing

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Thea Stanton

Module Tutor Contact Details: t.stanton@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module is concerned with a critical investigation into somatic practices as a basis for body knowledge, creativity and performance. The course aims to promote a greater awareness of your body as a living, moving and creative entity within a wider ecosystem, whilst developing a greater understanding of how somatic movement education can inform and support health and wellbeing.

This inquiry into the value of somatic practices and the subsequent evaluation of the body in practice will inform and support other areas of your Level 6 dance studies. In addition, you will consider how this knowledge might be useful in different employment scenarios which could be explored further in your Professional Practice module, (e.g. community, educational and therapeutic work). 

2. Outline syllabus:

This course will build your skills through practical sessions that investigate the potential of whole body consciousness to enhance creativity, performance and health and wellbeing. Development of the intelligence of your body through the study of somatic techniques will facilitate focus, freedom and ease of movement, promoting an increased anatomical and kinaesthetic understanding of the moving body and how this supports wellbeing. You will explore new dimensions of creativity and performance that build on themes of consciousness and presence in improvisational contexts. Theoretical investigations will support your practical work and enable a more sophisticated interrogation of the psychophysical self, giving substance to both your practice and critical understanding.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module will be taught through weekly somatic/performance skills sessions that combine theory and practice. Practical work will be monitored and informed through a reflective journal, observations, discussions and tutorials. These elements will require you to reflect on, analyse and evaluate your own practice giving clear indication of individual progression. Theoretical underpinning will enhance your understanding of key principles and give you an opportunity to explore, research and evaluate areas of somatic practice.

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 directed study in order to continue to develop your skills and inform your practice. Tutorial support will be offered for written work and for monitoring practical progression. 

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Practical Improvisations (equivalent of 3,000 words)

• % Weighting: 60%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2,000 words)

• % Weighting: 40%