Difference between teaching at community college and dance school?

[Shajar]

I would like to know the differences (if any) of teaching a beginner's class at a community college versus a dance school. For example, are students at a community college usually hobby dancers vs. those at a dance school more serious or pro-track? Do you think there is a difference of qualifications for teachers?

[*Shira*]

Depends. Is your class offered as part of the curriculum, in a for-credit scenario? If so, you'll be expected to establish standards for grading. Some colleges expect the instructor to assign a paper for students to write. For such classes, the college may require the instructor to have a master's degree. Depends on the college.

But if your class is being offered by the community college as just an adult education program, with no credit hours, then chances are the only requirement will be to record attendance every class. For such classes, instructor credentials would be less rigorous.

[Lauren_]

I've taught at a ballet/tap/jazz dance studio and as a non-credit community college course. For me, the students were about the same.

I think if my dance studio students had come from within the studio, and been long-term trained dancers, I might have seen more serious students there. But the students came from my advertising, flyers and ads in the community promoting belly dance, so they represented the same group I got at community centers, parks & rec departments, etc.

The group of women who are drawn to classes advertising 'bellydance' seems to be about the same wherever I teach.

The only time I ever taught a really dedicated group of students was when I got to offer a workshop to dance majors at a university. Wow, what an experience that was!

[lizajuk]

My community college group are a mixed group. There will always be a number who regularly do courses..ny courses that appeal...at their local college. They may move on to Oriental cookery or flower arranging.
On the other hand I find those that have "stayed the course" and shown interest are more demanding on background knowledge and serious about what they do. Dance school people especially on a drop in are equally mised but tend towards to the funsters, I find with 1 or 2 obsessed. My dance school group is just that..developed into a group which I have now closed as they are 6 girls who work together and are prepared to push themselves.

[Shajar]

Thanks for the perspectives! A friend of mine who teaches continuing ed (non credit) was encouraging me to apply for a teaching job, which is why I asked this question. I do have an MA--- but in Middle Eastern Studies, not dance specifically.

[Linnyg]

I would also imagine it would depend on what they are offering it as. Adult Ed, PE credit or dance credit.

[anthea]

My experience in teaching for community ed vs in a dance studio is there's more "dancers" in a dance studio.... whereas you get all kinds of people in community ed.

This can be good or bad - I actually like starting from scratch with people who haven't been trained more than trying to retrain them from some other dance technique.

[Shajar]

Yes, this was my impression. Thanks for the input!

My experience in teaching for community ed vs in a dance studio is there's more "dancers" in a dance studio.... whereas you get all kinds of people in community ed.

This can be good or bad - I actually like starting from scratch with people who haven't been trained more than trying to retrain them from some other dance technique.

[dancinglmt]

Re: your Masters Degree - it probably will not matter if it's not dance related. My Masters is in Counseling but the state was not concerned with the specifics. As per the requirements of the college, I needed to submit a syllabus with clear standards for grading. It needs to include 30 minutes of lecture since they receive academic credit. The students learn so much about the history of the dance, music, etc... that they get a more well rounded appreciation than some of my other classes...albeit, less mastering of technique. I guess it's a trade-off in my case. Good luck and I hope it's a good experience for you!

[lizajuk]

The main difference for me is that I don't have to bother with self employment tax forms..someone else does the working out for me!

[lizajuk]

Colleges in the Uk usually demand some knd of qualifications. Either teaching and /or subject. There is a fast track course you can follow if you teach what might be deemed as non-academic. But proof of some kind of training in your chosen subject is being demanded these days. They are more likely to be picky than a "private" health club.

[casbahdance]

Re: your Masters Degree - it probably will not matter if it's not dance related. My Masters is in Counseling but the state was not concerned with the specifics.

That's true in California. The dance department will really want somebody with a Masters degree -- and just about any subject is acceptable.

Again, in California, if you have a Bachelors degree (in anything) and work experience in the subject you will teach, you can get a waiver. Most community colleges, tho, really want that Masters degree behind your name. Makes them look good.

Although, I have to wonder what good a Masters in dance does for somebody teaching BD with ZERO EXPERIENCE in either performing or teaching it. Yep. This has happened at a local community college.

They are currently having a hip hop teacher (well, she has her Masters in dance doesn't she?) teach the ME dance class with the assistance of someone who is of ME descent but who, also, has ZERO experience in performing or teaching it. My understanding is that the two of them watch a DVD every so often and attempt to "teach" from that.

Yeah. Right. That makes the school look good.

So, Shajar, you're 'way ahead of the game.

Deborah

[Fotia]

In my own personal experience, just the price. Which means more bang for your buck.

[aziyade]

The group of women who are drawn to classes advertising 'bellydance' seems to be about the same wherever I teach.

Same here. Although the REALLY specific venues -- like new age bookstores -- draw a different crowd.

I had just as many students when I was teaching at a tap/ballet/jazz/gymnastic studio as now, where I'm at the local ballet academy. One of my students doesn't like this school because she says it's too snooty (which is kind of silly as we're never in class the same time as the company or pre-pro dancers) but we have sprung floors and fully mirrored walls, so I'm not leaving.