Principles of Science and Somatics in Dance Training
DANC 3020
3 hours
Principles of Science and Somatics in Dance Training
Course Description
Survey of primary scientific and somatic principles that inform
dance training and performance, including anatomical and
kinesiological components, injury prevention, rehabilitation,
safe practices, somatic neuromuscular re-education methods, and
an introduction to dance movement therapy.
Athena Title
Science Somatics Dance Train
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will have developed a broader understanding and efficient function of the body in dance as it is viewed through both scientific and somatic perspectives.
By the end of this course, students will have learned basic anatomical knowledge of the human musculoskeletal system and acquire both visual image and perceptual sense of the body's structure.
By the end of this course, students will have learned to detect and correct particular muscular imbalances that may relate to physical stress.
By the end of this course, students will have developed an awareness of one’s own alignment. Conduct alignment analysis and identify common alignment deviations and postural conditions.
By the end of this course, students will understand and apply physical training principles, and about the prevention and care of common dance injuries.
By the end of this course, students will identify major physical, environmental, and psychological stress factors relating to dance training.
By the end of this course, students will have gained an understanding of the major somatic movement therapies, their purposes and their founders, through readings, discussion, and experiential applications.
By the end of this course, students will have developed an understanding of dance therapy, its history, its purpose, and its primary pioneers.
Topical Outline
- Introduction to fundamental knowledge and principles of dance science and somatic perspective and approaches
- Identifying and applying neuromuscular and skeletal language, landmarks, and landscapes
- Identifying and recalling major muscles and bones throughout the body, section by section
- Analyzing a sample of current research from the literature
- Applying current evidence-based safe and healthy dance practice
- Executing and present final presentations
