Course Description
Topics for the course will be designed for each particular study abroad program. Students will explore and experience social, traditional, and theatrical dance in various world cultures. Participatory discussions on issues in world dance, as well as performative experiences, will be a focus in the course.
Athena Title
Seminar in Dance
Non-Traditional Format
The variable credit hours accommodate the different lengths of programs for study abroad: 3-week program (Maymester), 5-week program (Short Summer Session I), and a full-semester program.
Pre or Corequisite
Permission of department and enrollment in a study abroad program in dance
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. To study the cultural and historical aspects of the dance styles and forms of the country in which the study abroad program is based; 2. To learn about the relationship of dance within the art and culture of the country where the study abroad program is based; 3. To identify and experience the forms of social dance, traditional dance, and theatrical dance in the country of study; 4. To clearly express thoughts and ideas about the cultural setting and the new dance forms investigated in group discussions; 5. To investigate, through research and practice, aspects of cultural dance forms as presented in a written project; 6. To explore the current trends in dance in the region of study and the influences of those cultural elements on dances created for the final performance project.
Topical Outline
The topics for the course will be designed for the particular study abroad program. Generally topics include: 1. historical and cultural aspects of the host country; 2. relationship of dance within the art and culture of the host country; 3. readings, videos, and live performances of social dance, traditional dance and theatrical dance of region in which the study abroad program is based; 4. relating dance experiences of the host country to dance experiences in the United States; 5. perceptions of the globalization of dance as experienced during the study abroad.
Syllabus