First Advisor
Minton, Sandra L.
Date Created
12-2018
Abstract
The purpose of this research study was to integrate dance in a social studies project-based learning (PBL) unit. The incorporation of dance in this unit was not only a learning experience for the students, but for the dance teacher and classroom teacher alike. The teachers worked cooperatively to plan and create this unit of study and through their collaboration taught the subject using their individual teaching styles. The classroom teacher used traditional instructional methods, while the dance teacher taught the same subject matter through the use of movement and dance. Throughout the unit, the teachers consulted to ensure student learning and progress. Twenty-nine students were included in this study along with the dance and classroom teachers. The researcher posed the following essential questions which guided the thesis study: What were the possible effects of integrating dance in the development and delivery of a PBL unit? Did the level of student involvement in a class change when both movement and dance were included in a PBL unit to deliver content? What were the teacher and student responses to the use of movement and dance included in the PBL unit of study? This research project was intended to benefit and advocate for the collaboration of dance with classroom subject content. The researcher found the unit of study was enjoyed by both students and teachers. This research project also demonstrated when given the time, collaboration amongst educators across subject areas, using interdisciplinary teaching methods allowed for successful student learning.
Extent
83 pages
Local Identifiers
KulchinskyThesis2018.pdf
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
Recommended Citation
Kulchinsky, Sarah Avery, "Collaborating, Creating and Implementing: a Cohesive Project-Based Learning Social Studies Unit with the Goal of Deepening Third Grade Student Learning Experiences" (2018). Master's Theses. 72.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/theses/72