Anna Semenovich

It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to the first in a series of guest bloggers, Anna Semenovich, a recent graduate of the Master of Education and Master of Art Degree program in Dance at the University of Toronto. She is currently working on her PhD in Human Movement Sciences at Brock University, where she has founded and directs the Movement Studies Lab. In addition to blogging and teaching, Anna is also an active dancer, choreographer, and social entrepreneur. You can read her first blog post below. –Ed.

Dance Education in Higher Education: Why Is It Important?

Dance is a form of expressive movement that can be highly effective at increasing student engagement and enhancing critical thinking skills. However, many universities don’t offer sufficient training in dance, which can put students at a disadvantage when applying for jobs. Through her research, Anna will be investigating the effectiveness of various forms of dance education in higher education, as well as exploring how dance can be used to address social justice issues. Below, she reveals more about her research and the importance of dance education in higher education.

Why Are There Lack Of Job Opportunities For Graduate Students?

With the unemployment rate at an all-time low, it might be tempting for graduate students to slack off and enjoy life while seeking their Masters. However, the harsh reality is that finding employment for qualified students can be quite challenging. The majority of students who are pursuing their degrees will be graduating into a job market that is already saturated with job seekers. This coupled with the competitive nature of the job search means that students are likely to be competing for limited employment opportunities, if they are able to find any at all.

Dance education is an important area of study for graduate students. Not only is it relevant to their personal and professional development, but it also provides them with valuable job skills that could equip them for employment, either now or in the future. In fact, a report by the American Association of Dance Studios indicates that nearly all of the workplaces they surveyed had a formal training program in place and that nearly all of the respondents said their training prepared them for employment in the field. This was especially true for registered nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, who cited professional development and growth as the primary reason for pursuing their respective dance educations.

It is also important to note here that the job prospects for trained dancers are excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be an approximate 16.9% increase in employment opportunities for professional dancers from 2016 to 2026. Additionally, the unemployment rate for professional dancers is expected to be just 3.8%.

Is There A Specific Type Of Dance That Is Suitable For Graduates?

While all types of dance are effective at increasing productivity as well as boosting self-esteem and confidence, there are certain styles of dance that are better suited for graduates. The key is to find a balance between challenging yourself while also staying relaxed and in control. If you’re looking to target job seekers, then you might want to pursue more of a classical or modern jazz ballet, as these styles are more often associated with high-end leisure activities. However, if you’re looking to attract students who aren’t necessarily applying for employment, then you might want to consider an experimental or avant-garde form of dance, such as hip-hop or contemporary dance. Experimenting with different types of dance is what helped Anna develop her skills as a dancer, and it’s also what will help her apply those skills in her PhD research.

What Can Universities Do To Increase The Number Of Students Interested In Dance?

Universities can play a pivotal role in increasing the number of students interested in dance. One way is through mentorship. By providing students with opportunities to connect with experienced professionals in the field, universities can foster an appreciation for dance, as well as help guide students toward a clearer career path. Additionally, many universities offer scholarships specifically geared toward encouraging students to pursue a career in dance. By providing financial support, universities can help to alleviate some of the financial burden that may be preventing otherwise interested students from pursuing their passion for dance.

On a related note, it is also important to note that many universities offer student membership to various organizations and societies, such as the American Association of Dance Studios. Being a member of such an organization provides students with the opportunity to gain access to a diverse network of professionals, as well as allows them to keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the field. Additionally, students can present their work in professional conferences and competitions, gaining invaluable experience that could help them in their future career. This also provides them with the opportunity to establish a professional network, should they decide to pursue a career in dance. 

How Does Dance Education Affect Student Lifelong Learning?

Dance education can play a crucial role in encouraging students to continue learning throughout their lifetimes. Through a series of structured classes and homework, students can develop the habits of lifelong learning. Additionally, many teachers will encourage their students to take classes outside of the university, either at a local community centre or via online learning platforms. This can help to expose students to a variety of courses and allow them to broaden their knowledge base, should they decide to pursue a career in a related field. It is also important to note that in today’s world, the ability to adapt and continue learning is highly valued, and employers are more likely to appreciate graduates who can demonstrate this skill. In fact, the job prospects for students who demonstrate an aptitude for continued learning are extremely promising, with a reported 84.1% of employers stating that they would be likely to or definitely would hire a graduate who displays this skill.

Dance is a form of artistic expression that can be enjoyable, challenging, and highly effective at increasing productivity as well as critical thinking skills. Additionally, it provides students with valuable job skills that could equip them for employment, either now or in the future. If you’re looking to target job seekers, then you might want to consider pursuing more of a classical or modern jazz ballet, as these styles are more often associated with high-end leisure activities. However, if you’re looking to attract students who aren’t necessarily applying for employment, then you might want to consider experimenting with different types of dance, as this will help inspire others to pursue their passions as well.