Minute Masterclass Episode 31

Welcome to your one-minute masterclass. I’m Andrea Trench, founder of DiscoverDance. You want to take the time to inform your students of the expectations during virtual classes, just as you would in the studio. Practice proper virtual class behavior. Teach them where to stand, how to get close to the camera to hear important information, and remind them not to touch the camera or computer. Create a signal for when their attention is needed such as a hand signal, silly face, or movement. As you take attendance, have each dancer answer a question of the day. Say their names often. 

Remember that it is natural for kids to just sit and watch, because that is what they normally do in front of a screen. Keep reminding them to join in and dance. Calling the dancers by name reminds them that they can be seen and that they aren’t just watching a video. Be sure to allow interaction with the entire class. Unmute everyone when reviewing class objectives or for singing. If one dancer has a noisy background then you can choose to mute just that dancer. Remember to be EXTRA animated and EXTRA silly…turn up your studio performance by 100%! 

If possible, have an assistant join the class as well to demonstrate full out so you can be closer to the screen to interact with the children as they are dancing. Lastly, use visuals such as pictures, books, or fun props to engage dancers and enhance the learning experience. For more information, visit DiscoverDance.com.