Dancing with Purpose: Catholic Leaders’ and Dance Educators’ Perspectives on Nurturing the Whole Child (Stage 2, 10:44 AM)

• In Event: e-Lightning Ed-Talk Session 11 - Stage 2

Abstract

Jesuit education emphasizes “cura personalis” or care of the whole person, including their social-emotional, spiritual, moral, ethical, and physical development. Minimal research has connected whole-person education to the arts, despite the arts’ potential to spark self-expression and creativity. This qualitative case study uses semi-structured interviews, program artifacts, and public media to describe both Catholic education leaders’ and dance educators’ perspectives on how dance can support whole-person learning in three ways: by supporting integrated student development along multiple dimensions; by providing an avenue for students to explore and broaden their personal interests and to envision new opportunities and goals; and by connecting peers, schools, families, and broader communities. Dance can thus be an effective tool for successful holistic education.

Authors

• Deoksoon Kim, Boston College

• Katrina Borowiec, Boston College

• Susan Martinelli Shea, Boston College