The Teaching Value Of American Standard Dance

This study investigated the teaching values of American smooth.The question that drove this study was: What are the values of teaching American Smooth to ballroom dance students in tertiary dance institutions in China?This study may play a significant role in developing theory and practice of American Smooth in China as there is no relevant research of it in China.This research may also supplement current ballroom dance syllabi in tertiary dance institutions in China.Moreover,as American Smooth inherently has a performance and free nature,it may enhance students theatrical(stage)performing abilities.American Smooth is a successful example of localization of ballroom dance in the United States of America.It may be of reference to the localization of ballroom dance in China.This study utilized qualitative and constructivist paradigms.Data was collected through conducting dance classes and semi-structured interviews with eight dance students from Beijing Dance Academy.Through a constant comparative analysis,the following themes emerged: American Sooth breaks the “frame” that International Ballroom Dance has and isn’t restricted to standing together face to face between partners as the International style is,therefore there is more freedom for the dance,which makes the dance very dramatic and entertaining.As a training method,American Smooth can enhance ballroom dance students’ physical performance and ability to utilize space.As American Smooth has elements of International Style Ballroom Dance,Latin,Jazz and Popular dance styles,students can learn to better combine different dance styles together,establish a foundation for artistic theatrical show choreography and performance.Moreover.Learning American Smooth helps graduates improve their teaching abilities and have a competitive career advantage.