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Did anything resonate with you today?

Today enabled myself to break out of my comfort zone and be more confident. It allowed me to not take myself so seriously, in turn making students feel more comfortable in the arts.

What were your most uncomfortable moments?

Moments in the classroom were never particularly "uncomfortable' per say. I think the nerves of being in a room of strangers was the only tension I felt. However as the workshop progressed those nerves eased, maybe it was because of those terrible ice breakers or maybe it was because of time.

Which 2 points did you take from the mini lecture?

Points I can take from the mini lecture includes but is not limited to.

1. Arts is not always a supported subject in the education system and often has to fight for it's survival as a unit. However it is an integral element in a well rounded educational experience.

2. Children are often born artists but grow out of that mindset due to social and cultural conditioning.

Did you discover anything new about the arts?

I did not discover anything new, rather I discovered that I still have a strong passion for the arts and perhaps the arts/drama may be my major.

What was your experience of the arts in primary school?

In primary school and secondary school I was always involved in the arts, loving the centre of attention. It was always a class I looked forward to. Even to points where I dreamt about performing in class or in plays/musicals.

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Can you reflect on yourself as a learner?

As a learner in AED1260, I am finding myself become more confident as the weeks go by. I am fostering successful relationships in the classroom with both my peers as well as with the course work.

Can you gauge your reaction to this workshop, compared to the first?

In comparison to the first workshop I don’t feel as nervous and I now feel comfortable to share ideas and go full out in group activities,

What do you think is meant by the concept that students learn by symbolically representing their world through drama?

This idea to me is the ability for students to have an outlet but also have the ability to relate to things in a more easily digestible format.

How does drama foster collaboration and cooperation?

Drama establishes a strong community, individuals are able to let go of inhibitions and realise each of them have a common goal.

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How do the practical activities and unit information inform your personal understanding of the use of dance as an expressive learning process through which educators can facilitate creativity in primary students?

The practical activities I participate in tutorials gives myself and my peers opportunities to have examples of how a dance lesson can be run. As someone who is more drama focused, dance is something that makes me nervous. It is definitely something I would like to develop my skills more in, as it can be an effective form of expression for not only general stream students but for individuals with learning difficulties.

What has been the most important personal realisation in the last few weeks in this unit?

Everyone is equally as embarrassed, no one is judging you.

Why is it the most important?

My anxiety often gets the better of me in a lot of situations, its a calming thought.

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What do you know about planning for authentic arts learning experiences?

Planning authentic arts experiences should be relatable and allow for student input. The arts is a creative subject and students should be encouraged to think creatively at every opportunity.

How would you encourage the use of creative thinking and imagination in the arts learning experiences you faciliate with primary students?

I would begin each lesson with students having 5 minutes in small groups to come up with a creative dance as a greeting to the class, students would then present this as a performance carousel.

What do you need to consider when assessing the students in their arts work?

Things to consider:

Did they address the criteria of the assignment outline?

Did it have dramatic elements?

Was it enjoyable?

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Looking back - what was your favorite activity in the unit?

My favourite activity was creating the short trailer utilising camera angles etc.

Has anything surprised you about teaching dance, drama, and or media arts to primary students?

I did not realise the amount of effort and thought went into each and every drama, dance and or media arts lesson. As a student I was always ignorant to the purpose of the arts.

Which dance, drama, or media arts strategy are you keen to try out with a group of primary students?

I already have! On my professional practice, I got the opportunity to utilise my LEP from this subject. The students absolutely loved it, improvisation journeys with teacher in role seem to be very effective. My mentor even asked for a copy of my LEP.

Can you comment on the process of devising a dance, drama, and media art performance as a group?

It is extremely difficult, but when you're in a group with a clear vision it is easier. Generating a theme is the first step, it is easy to base all ideas from there. The use of colour as a base was extremely helpful.