School administrators Essay

Education plays an important role in the life of almost all individual because this is the means by which they can gain knowledge and reach their full potential. In line with this, educational institutions give due importance to their curriculum in order to make sure that they are covering all the subjects and lessons that will help their students to develop their skills and talents. In line with this, almost all educational institutions include the arts as an important part of their curriculum because of the essential skills, talents, and values that students can develop from this area of education. Dance class is one of the major parts of the arts area of education that allow students to learn body coordination, music appreciation, and also a better understanding of various cultures through the different dance genres that are being taught. However, there are problems within educational institutions that resulted for most school administrators to cut-back or even completely eliminate dance classes and other art programs. Public schools usually have the most problems when it comes to maintaining dance classes because of the lack of school budget, facilities, and other needed materials to maintain dance classes. In relation to this, public school administrators also have to deal with the limited number of educators or teachers that will instruct students about the different genres of dance. Due to the challenges that public schools have to deal with, there is a continuous debate on whether dance classes should still be included in the educational curriculum. The on-going debate about the importance and need of dance classes in education is an important topic of study because it deals with the holistic learning and development of students. A comprehensive study should be made in order to identify whether there is really a need for dance classes to be included in the curriculum of most schools or having dance classes only give unnecessary cost and further contribute to the problems of public schools. In line with this, the research study that will be conducted gives primary focus on identifying whether there is really a need for dance class in education or not. In doing so, the corresponding pros and cons about dance class in education will be given due attention and importance. Identifying the positive and negative implications about dance class in education will substantially help the stakeholders in the issue. Stakeholders will be able to properly assess whether there is really a need for dance classes to be included in the educational curriculum or not. Studying the need for dance class in education is essential because the holistic development and well-being of students are at stake in this issue. Statement of the Problem The study aims to assess on whether there is a need for dance class in education, particularly in the secondary level of education. Specifically the study intends to: †¢ Describe the commonly used educational curriculum in the secondary academic level with emphasis on arts programs, specifically dance classes. †¢ Identify the positive effects of dance classes in education, especially when it comes to the development of students and their performance at school. †¢ Identify the negative effects of dance classes in education, especially when it comes to the development of students and their performance at school. †¢ Assess the effects of dance class to students and the need on whether to include it in the educational curriculum. Justifications for the Chosen References The articles that are included in the literature review section of this paper are chosen by the researcher because these articles exemplify the corresponding implications of having dance classes in educational institutions. Most the articles that were discussed in the literature review of the paper are studies that are previously made by different researchers about dance classes in education. In line with this, there are also case studies that are part of the literature review of the study that talks about the actual situation and experiences of students in specific schools about dance classes as part of their educational curriculum. Moreover, the researchers and writers that are responsible in creating the articles that are part of the literature review of the study are respectable individuals that actually have the necessary knowledge and expertise about dance and education. Relevance of the Articles to the Research Topic The article which had been chosen for this research are all important aspects pointed out towards the connection of dance with academic and personal life of each student. The chosen articles are a representation of different sides of research which discusses the importance of dance in the life of the youth. The articles contain the positive perspectives with dance and the values which are gained throughout such activity. The values that are highlighted are not only applicable for academics but also within the personal life of each student. More so, the articles will largely support the positive effects of dancing towards the youth. On the other hand, the articles utilized were providing various kinds of perspectives from different authors which are already experienced regarding such matters. Furthermore, the discussions of the authors are true to what is seen within schools. Most of the articles present are explaining the importance of dance in the lives of each student that will lead to their growth. More so, the articles are significant to the development of the literature review as well as the other parts of the paper such that of the analysis and findings and conclusion. The articles have specific concepts and theoretical perspectives that are very efficient in attaining the proper analysis. Also, the authors that are chosen for the whole paper are well versed in the topic they have written. In the light of this, the articles shall create a path towards a clear understanding regarding the concept of dance in relation to academic perspective. Therefore, there is a need to utilize different types of materials which had created earlier studies regarding dance schools in the secondary level. Through the use of different articles, this would shed light to the aim of proving that dance lessons are needed by students in the secondary level. Literature Review Article Title: Dance Education Research: What Train Are We On? Karen Kohn Bradley, a dance educator, conducted a study regarding the role of dance classes in the educational reforms of public schools in the United States. Bradley admitted that as a dance instructor she is aware that learning through movement like dance is a powerful agent that substantially helps in the enhancement of the cognitive skills of students. In the same manner, she also pointed out that dance classes teach students the valuable lessons, especially in terms of discipline. The two aforementioned approaches of dance education often create tension, which is not realized by educators in public schools that teaches dance classes. However, the present condition of public schools requires accountability and educational reform in order to properly address the root causes of current problems. In line with this, the relevance of dance in American public schools during the time of educational reform is given more emphasis (Bradley, 2001). Bradley pointed out in her study that dance programs and classes are among the most under-represented and marginalized, and misunderstood field of education. The important role of dance classes in public schools are often taken for granted, which is why there is a big possibility that it would not achieve due recognition in the reforms that are happening in American public schools. Bradley proposed that dance educators and other stakeholders in the field of dance education should start giving more value to themselves but further mastering in their craft. Furthermore she also pointed out that dance educators and stakeholders should not give up their fight in the inclusion of dance classes in public schools, especially since they are very much aware of the benefits that it can provide to their students (Bradley, 2001). Article Title: Nurturing Excellence through the Arts In the written work of Vanessa Camilleri and Anthony D. Jackson with the title â€Å"Nurturing Excellence through the Arts† stated that it is important that art classes must be taken by different students for it is will provide a very positive effect for the students. In ATA or the Arts and Technology Academy, the students are required to have extracurricular activities in three times a week in the whole school year. Moreover, there is direct participation of various professors and parents in developing a certain program that would enhance the ability of the students in the arts. The authors were able to mention that the arts program is not only limited to dancing but to the wider variety of performing arts. The school was able to create a program where in art shall be a source of education for the students. In the light of this, it is presented that the school wanted to integrate learning from a philosophical perspective of arts. More so, it is dancing which will bring a higher development for students not only in terms of academic level but also for their personal development. In the philosophy of the school, the lessons bring the students bring artistic content and develop the emotional and social skills of children. It is mentioned that in reality, it is the computing and interpersonal skills that must be developed in order to adapt in the modern world. Therefore through the activities in the performing arts, students shall be much more able to comply to the fast paced world with fewer complications. Definitely, the techniques of teaching the children utilized in ATA is highly focused on the arts as its association the development and nourishment of students in their future lives (Camelleri & Jackson, 2005). Article Title: Performance and Motivation in Dance Education In the written work of Elizabeth Lazaraoff, it is evident that there is the need to incorporate dancing as one of the main subjects in public schools for it is one of the most effective motivational practices available in teaching. For most students get bored in schools due to their uninterested attitudes, it is dancing or the whole perspective of performing arts must be associated with the development of students and the curriculum in public schools. For most schools are focused in science and math, a new concept that is much relatable for children in the elementary level shall help motivate students in being active in school. Furthermore, the author suggests that the performing arts must be associated not only in the curriculum but also in the teaching techniques of teachers. Article Title: Gliding Glissade Not Grand Jete Elementary Classroom Teachers Teaching Dance This article presents that there is a need to create a program of dancing in the elementary level. Such levels are very fun loving and playful hence, they are needed to be stimulated through performing arts in order for them to be much motivated. However, the article created by Anne Dunkin states that the elementary level is very good in absorbing and appreciating such type of concepts. On the other hand, other levels such as the secondary and university level are less appreciative in such kind of teaching. More so, the US Department of Education pointed in their 2002 report that most secondary and elementary schools are not practicing art education. There are only one fifth of schools in the United States offer the instructions in dancing. Hence, not all students have the opportunity dancing and performing arts as a whole. Therefore, Dunkin wanted to attain a level of awareness that there is a need to incorporate dancing in the curriculum of each school in the United States. Although the goals might not be possible in the next five years of the thought of such association of dance to schools are also not impossible. The author suggests that there must be a full regarding with such type of issue. There must be a high association that would pursue the interests of students in their artistic side. With such type of organization, the possibility of attaining an artistic curriculum shall be created (Dunkin, 2004). Article Title: Dance Education in Elementary Schools Based on the research study regarding the status of K-12 dance education, two levels of implications have been observable about dance education: the first one of the practical effect while the other one involves the clarification of visions. The practical implication emphasized the need to include new requirements about dance classes with corresponding guidance and resources in order for students to effectively learn in their dance lessons. However, there is a huge gap between the requirements and the reality because extensive teacher training and the need for provision materials should be given attention, since these are the main problems that affect dance classes and programs. Moreover, teachers should not be merely regarded as technical support because it is pivotal that they are included in the decision-making process when it comes to educating students (Bresler, 1992). Article Title: K-12 Dance Education: Four Model Programs The article written by Bresler discussed dance education in elementary schools by means of narrating and assessing a particular research study about the status of dance education in elementary schools. The status of dance education was studied by means using four perspectives, namely: â€Å"musician Liora Bresler, an outsider, looks at dance programs in Illinois elementary schools† (Knowles et al. , 1992, n. p. ). In line with this, other reputable personalities also participated in the study of Bresler, such as: Susan Stinson, who represented the perspective of high school students about the value of dance; Patricia Knowles and Rona Sande presented a model dance programs in four different parts of the United States; and Peggy Schwartz is the one responsible in the creation, development and even demise of the dance certification for educators in the state of Massachusetts. The efforts made by the different important people in the study contributed in gathering the necessary data about the national trends in teacher education, requirements for certification, and the application of programs (Knowles et al. , 1992). Article Title: Dance Education in American Public Schools: Case Studies The report of Knowles and Sande are consists of four case studies that represent the results of a national survey that was conducted by the National Arts Education Research Center. The main purpose of the research is to identify and choose model schools that already have curriculum-based K-12 dance education programs. The schools that were part of the research study were: â€Å"Fillmore Arts Center (Washington, D. C. ). Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts (Buffalo, New York, Duxberry Park Arts IMPACT School (Columbus, Ohio), and Jefferson High School for the Performing Arts (Portland, Oregon). The important areas of discussion that were included in each case study are: the educators/faculty, curriculum, program objectives, facilities, and equipment. The results of the study showed that the school that were observed have several similar characteristics, namely: â€Å"strong parental and community support; mutual respect among dance faculty and a unified program philosophy; frequent communication and a positive working atmosphere; a belief in integration within content areas and in interdisciplinary work; a curriculum that excites students; and administrative confidence and support† (Knowles and Sande, 1991, n. p. ). Article Title: Revitalizing Pennsylvania through Creativity: Dance Education Giguere, a Pennsylvanian herself, wrote an article that talks about the way by which their place was able to address difficulties through the help of dance education. The author pointed out the bleak future of Pennsylvania due to the economic hardships that it is experiencing. In addition, Pennsylvania also has to deal with other problems such as: slow population growth, aging work force, and the increasing presence of suburban slumps. The aforementioned untoward situation of Pennsylvania is greatly contributing to the â€Å"brain drain† of its highly-educated and competent workers. Giguere was able to found out in her research that the reasons for the flight of most young professionals are due to the lack of arts and culture in local Pennsylvania communities. In line with this, Giguere emphasized that Pennsylvania can actually make its situation better by means of improving its arts and culture by establishing and improving dance classes. The author strongly believes that the strength of Pennsylvania is not found in technology but rather in enriching its arts and culture. (Giguere, 2005). Analysis All the articles have each own relevance in terms of providing information that would help people in attaining the importance of education and dance. Some articles provide different kinds of perspectives in the current development of the association of dance and education. There are articles where in the authors provide the significance and reasons for the need of dance and performing arts in education. Most of the authors mention that dance in the academic setting motivates the students in going to school and it further helps students in attaining a much balanced lifestyle. In addition to this, the authors chosen for this study strongly believes in the concept of dance as the major influence for students in building their social, emotional and personal progress as a individual in the society. The performing arts is not simply a hobby for students but a much enjoyable training ground for students as a preparation for their future in the modern world. Due to the points mentioned by the authors utilized in this study, the researcher chose to view the question of: â€Å"Is there a need for dance education in the secondary level of education. † This research question shall be the main query that will be utilized in the different sections of the study. Therefore, this question shall be provided with accurate data in order to attain the proper response. Conclusion In conclusion, education is the most important aspect in the lives of different individuals for it provides development. More so, education must also develop in association to the development of the modern life. In the current era, people are highly associating themselves with culture and the arts. Therefore, there is a new perspective which is evidently seen in the boom of artistic interests of the current age. Hence, in order to nurture such type of the perspective, there are authors to which believe in the concept of associating education and dancing to comply with the current era. In the section of the literature review, it is clear that most authors see that the association of dance and education is a positive and possible development in the United States. Furthermore, the authors see that such belief is effective for the students due to the variety of values and skills they are able to attain. Moreover, students have a much developed interpersonal skills that are highly important in the work place. In addition to this, the students become confident of what they have for they have developed a unique skill. Therefore, the authors encourage that dancing and the whole selection of performing arts should be associated in the curriculum and also within the teaching technique of teachers. In relation to this, students become more appreciative of the arts most especially with their social and emotional feelings. Due to the fast life and societal norms present in the society. Most students only become nurtured through their science and math skills but in reality, students must be able to link their emotional and social skills to attain their best abilities. The expansive abilities developed in students could not be denied for the results are very evident in the studies created by the authors. More so, this research aims to provide information that through dancing and education, students shall be able to contribute more to the future society not only in the economic view but also in the societal view. References Bradley, K. K. (2001). Dance education Research: What Train Are We On? National Dance Education Organization, 103, 31-35. Bresler, L. (1992). Dance Education in Elementary Schools. Design for Arts in Education, 93, 5. Camilleri, V. & Jackson, A. (2005). Nurturing Excellence through the Arts. Educational Leadership, 60-64. Dunkin, A. (2004). Gliding Glissade Not Grand Jete Elementary Classroom Teachers Teaching Dance. Arts Education Policy Review, 105, 23-29. Giguere, M. (2005). Revitalizing Pennsylvania through Creativity: Dance in Education. Arts Education Policy Review, 106, 34-39. Knowles, P. , and Sande, R. (1991). Dance Education in American Public Schools: Case Studies. Illinois: Council for Research in Music Education, School of Music, University of Illinois. Knowles, P. , & Sanders, R. (1992). K-12 Dance Education: Four Model Programs. Design for Arts in Education, 93, 5. Lazaroff, E. (2001). Performance and Motivation in Dance Education. Arts Education and Policy Review, 103, 23-29.