Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Date Created
12-1-2023
Abstract
The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of a curriculum based on Brain-Compatible Dance Education (BCDE) and Flow State Psychology to influence and inform the training of artistry within athletically and competitively trained contemporary dancers – specifically the collegiate dance athlete population. Through this study, participants worked to understand how to texturize and deepen their movement through guided improvisation exercises and contemporary movement practice. Lesson plans were developed within the framework of Gilbert’s BCDE, primarily following her inspiration from Bartenieff Fundamentals and Laban movement concepts. Based on conclusions drawn from journal reflections, survey results, and researcher observations, the experienced curriculum and practice led to the beginnings of artistic exploration and further establishment of personal value within a community of movers. However, data suggests the potential for increased intellectual and artistic growth if the study was repeated for a longer period of time.
Keywords
dance education; collegiate dance; artistry; Brain-Compatible Dance Education; Flow State; flow; BrainDance; improvisation; competitive dance; dance team; contemporary dance; Rudolf Laban; Laban movement concepts
Recommended Citation
St John, Paige Alexis, "FACILITATING ARTISTIC GROWTH IN ATHLETICALLY TRAINED CONTEMPORARY DANCERS: USING BRAIN-COMPATIBLE DANCE EDUCATION AND FLOW STATE PSYCHOLOGY TO PROMOTE AUTONOMOUS MOVEMENT CHOICES IN CONTEMPORARY MOVEMENT PRACTICE" (2023). Master's Theses. 286.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/theses/286