MICHELLE SCURLOCK JENSEN

I practice expressive learning. My students are encouraged to harness new ways of using this

as an instrument to better their personal wellness and artistic voice. Varying the structure of

my classes by including wellness practices, choreographic exploration, and technique, I

deliver class material both kinesthetically and verbally. Meaning is conveyed through both

form and content and is refined in the same way as technical skills – through repeated

performance. My students are provided with concise communication and feedback, prepared

for future dance endeavors whether it is discussion or performance based.

 

Wellness practices and artistic exploration are embedded in my technique classes. I believe it

is vital for students to practice their craft vigorously with dexterity. My objective is to foster

inventive and conscientious students, who express sophisticated ideas both technically and

conceptually. My students are constantly engaged physically and critically exploring how

movement is executed and why it can be used as a tool for personal growth.

 

My dance influences stem from classical to urban and social to improvisational. Traditional

dance forms, such as ballet, modern, and jazz, provide a platform of vocabulary encompassing

the ingredients of all dance forms. I create a trusting environment where students play

dynamically with body, energy, space, and time throughout each class. Students are well

informed of proper alignment, historical influences, and commitment to performance.

 

The dance studio is a setting where students gain knowledge by being immersed in a

collaborative environment. Dance technique courses integrate hands-on experience, visual

and kinesthetic learning, and group dynamics. Through classroom interaction, discussion,

personal and group critiques, I encourage collaboration in the classroom. Evaluation through

these associations fosters critical thinking and communication skills. The skills taught in my

classes set a foundation for further learning, dialogue, or creation of artistic practices.

 

Teaching is a learning process and keeps me engaged with new challenges and successes. It is

important to me that I constantly support and assess students’ development, focussing on

artist voice when executing technique and wellness practices. I hope my passion and

commitment to dance inspires students of all levels and ages to continue exploring the art of

dance in a variety of mediums.