VALUING WAYS OF KNOWING: Learning versus Teaching. What can we take away from each? 

BY MADison PIVONKA

My Education as a performer

As a dancer, and recent graduate from a performing arts-based college, the time I spent in the studios both rehearsing and taking technique classes provided me with some of my most significant learning experiences. I learned an immense amount about not only performing but also what it means to be a good leader and student. My teachers instilled in me the knowledge I have and provided me opportunities to lead my peers. Rehearsals are a collaborative space that allow the teachers and students to enrich themselves. That is why I’d like to highlight the spaces where I have been a student and the spaces where I have been the teacher to study how we share our knowledge. 

Dance Class: the ultimate learning experience

I have been a student to hundreds of teachers throughout my dance career, but working with my professors at Oklahoma City University for four years allowed me to analyze how and why each of them teach. They are all selfless individuals with a goal of impacting the next generation. I am grateful for the many hours I got to spend with them refining our technique, learning combinations, and polishing our dances. Our daily dance classes consisted of 20-25 dancers in expansive studios with long mirrors and tall ceilings, making it feel like you had all the room you needed to explore. Every student brings their own special something to the room, and I always tried to take something from my peers’ style. The energy was contagious. Even on the days when my body hurt and my brain was consumed with thoughts about homework, I wanted to be there dancing with my friends. The teachers always came with energy and charisma, even though I am sure teaching the same classes every day can become monotonous. 

Thanks to our curriculum, we had the opportunity to learn from each teacher for around 5-10 classes at a time before we went to the next. This meant we had time to learn their warm up, get used to their energy, and we always had something new to look forward to. Each instructor has their own vibe and way of describing their techniques. Some instructors would go into detail about our anatomy while others would focus more on the emotion. Because of their experience as students themselves, they knew exactly how to describe everything. Using imagery and metaphor, they kept us present and eager to try more. As a student, I went into class with an open mind and tried to absorb whatever wisdom they had to offer. There were rare moments where I did not understand the movement or it felt strange on my body, but that didn't mean I didn’t gain something from the experience. Through these classes, and my professors’ instruction, I have developed a drive and love for dance that I didn’t know needed reigniting. Following my teachers’ example, I now want to give back to the next generation in a similar fashion. Whether that’s through teaching at a studio or choreographing dances around the country, I see the importance of structured learning for people of all ages, whether that be in a dance classroom or not. 

My time as a teacher 

Even though most rehearsals were led by our faculty, I was able to lead my peers as a line captain. Being a line captain came with responsibilities such as making sure everyone was present, answering any questions, and even teaching choreography. I was given the opportunity to lead a rehearsal space because we were bringing back a dance from my freshman year. I worked alongside one of my peers, who was also previously in the dance, to teach the rest of the dancers the choreography. Because we were only a few weeks out from the show, our choreographer and director had a lot of things to tend to and were in and out of the space. Without much supervision, we had to decide how to make the most of our time. We all worked together to make sure everyone was on the same page and no one was left behind. Of course there were moments when we miscommunicated or got stuck, but we worked around it and continued working. 

Mimicking what our teachers taught us, we made sure to use detail and imagery while teaching to ensure there was intention behind every step. As a teacher, I try to make sure every student feels seen and no one is left out. When this happens, the group and their attention can begin to unravel. Also, you run the risk of feelings becoming hurt, which we always want to avoid. By making rehearsals both enjoyable and efficient, we became a team instead of teachers versus students. This focus on respect is something I will try to take with me into any space, no matter what role I am in. 

What I’ve taken away 

Being given the opportunity to lead was a major honor, and I too felt seen in that moment. I learned a lot being in that space, and I am thankful for the failures and wins I experienced. Both students and teachers have a responsibility when they walk into a shared space to give and take from each other. You must give selflessly while considering how each person learns as well as take as much as you can without bias. I have learned so much about what it means to be a great person and performer, no matter the role I am in. From here, I will be able to take these lessons throughout my life, so that I can continue to impact those around me while witnessing what makes them special.