Dance Tank

There are many interesting ideas out there about how to learn to dance but they never seem to discuss the REAL stuff.

When training to be a dance instructor one of the first things I was taught was the importance of identifying how my students learn. Because everyone has different personalities, experiences and tastes everyone learns differently.

Once I knew the way my students learnt then I was be able to develop programs and lessons to make the most out of their learning abilities. This meant that my students learnt faster and retained more information - but most importantly my students had fun learning.

Because I want everyone to get the most out of their learning from this dance space I will be presenting dance information in different ways. For YOU to get the most out of your learning it is important to know which way you learn best - that way you will be able to target those posts that will help you the most.

Below I’ve listed the 7 different ways people learn. Even though you might favour one learning method over another it is important to be aware of and value the other abilities - you never know when you might need them!

Logical Learners

These students have the ability to learn through method and reasoning: numbers, problem solving and patterns. They like information to be mathematical (the Rumba Box is made up of two triangles), as patterned and structural (steps are like Lego blocks that slot together in various ways). They like learning in order with step-by-step instructions.

Visual Learners

These students have the ability to learn through images (still and moving): patterns, figures and shapes. They like information to be drawn (the zig-zag pattern of the Waltz) or demonstrated. They are good at seeing then copying - especially mimicking movement.

Physical Learners

These students have the ability to learn through body movement: activity, touch, feeling and actions. They like information to be active and ‘now’ (learning by doing) and also tactile (shaped into dance frame by teacher) and by impression (music and motion association). Their bodies are good at remembering motion and position. Physical expression is very important.

Vocal Learners

These students have the ability to learn through language: meaning, words, sounds, and even voice rhythms and ’song’. They like information to be technical (place your right foot forward) or musical (Slooow, Quick! Quick!). Describing words are very important: floating, weight, balance, centre; as well as counting steps: 1, 2 3, 4&.

Musical Learners

These students have the ability to learn through sound: music, voice and rhythm. They like information to be to time (beats, pace), rhythm (collection of sounds), mood (feeling the Waltz) - but also musical (e.g. vocal: Slooow, Quick! Quick!) . Movement rhythm is also very important. They associate movement according to different styles and feels of music.

Extrovert Learners

These students have the ability to learn through social interaction: feelings, behaviour and collective learning. They like ‘gathering’ information from the group. They ‘read’ information from others and need to participate to solidate knowledge. They also learn by helping others.

Introvert Learners

These students have the ability to learn through independence. They like information that they can take away and work on by themselves. They prefer solitary activities and being given personal tasks. They are self-motivated and are good with practising.

Next month we will look into each of these learning abilities more closely and associate what learning tools in dance are helpful.