Domain 2: Learning Environments
2a: Cultivating Respectful and Affirming Environments
In order to assist students in how to participate in our dance studio culture while being mindful of respect amongst each other, the teacher and themselves, students are provided with posters and visuals throughout the room that discuss ways to be safe in the dance room along with how to respectfully respond to our classmates.
2b: Fostering a Culture for Learning
In order to build a supportive community in the classroom, students are encouraged to clap and cheer for their peers as they perform their work and provide constructive feedback when prompted to continue growing as creatives and community members. We also discuss the purpose of clapping and cheering on our friends as audience members to allow students to see that they are building a supportive learning environment amongst their classroom community.
2c: Maintaining Purposeful Environments
Students are given class jobs that rotate every month that help the class run smoothly and provide students with opportunities to be in control of their learning. In particular, students who are in the "Stage Manager" position for the month will lead the rest of the class in our set warm up while also making sure the class is following the warm up expectations.
2e: Organizing Spaces for Learning
Within my student teaching placement, we provided the students visuals such as red tape that starts at the entrance of the studio for the students to follow as they walk into the room and four black lines with rainbow order color tape spots to form color groups and designated spots for them to find every time they have class. The studio is equipped with a large mirror in the front of the room to use as a modeling tool when learning. We also have a projector that illuminates the whiteboard, allowing dance education to use correlating slides, timers, and videos.
In my future classroom, I envision a similar layout as I find the large open space with tools around the perimeter keeps the dance space safe. With some adjustments, I wish to make sure students have the proper resources needed for their training along with making the environment customizable for each lesson with LED lights that can assist imagery.