Dance/Movement for Integrated Populations: Curriculum Design and Best Practices

Through this paper and the course discussed herein, the authors consider the potential for great change in the landscape of dance education at the college-level, and advocate for an inclusive model that prepares students to be more effective artists, teachers and citizens. Teaching Dance and Movement for Nontraditional Populations, a college-level undergraduate dance course that focuses on the theories, content, and pedagogical methods for teaching dance to nontraditional populations, has been developed for students in the fields of dance, education, nursing, exceptionalities and related arts and therapeutic disciplines. Nontraditional populations refers to individuals or groups that are not regularly associated with the learning, teaching, performing, and making of dance, including individuals with physical, sensory, and developmental disabilities, persons living with chronic illness, and senior adults. It is vital that dance educators offer a broader perspective on "who" can experience dance and reduce any barriers confronting those who wish to participate.