Preparing Pre-Service Generalist Teachers to Use Creative Movement in K-6

Overview & Synopsis

University courses preparing elementary education majors to incorporate creative movement into their teaching methodology are becoming requirements in many schools of education around the country. The article addresses three questions pertinent to preparing upcoming teachers: 1. How can pre-service generalist teachers develop an appreciation of creative movement as a means of problem-solving and expression? 2. What strategies and approaches are university professors finding useful for these students? and, 3. How can the art form of dance remain prominent while using creative movement as an educational tool? The "how to's" of using creative movement to teach academic concepts is described and example lessons included. (Contains 3 figures.)