Make a list of 5 qualities you believe an effective dance teacher must have. Why do you you think these 5 qualities are so important?

Explanation:

Anyone can be a dancer, but not everyone has the skills and aptitude to be an effective dance instructor. There is more to teaching than just choreographing a few dance moves and expecting students to blindly follow suit. It takes a whole lot of gumption to mold awkward beginners into skilled professionals that can proudly showcase their craft to the world.

Of course, people have differing opinions on what being a good dance teacher entails. Some would prefer a teacher with more relaxed teaching methods, while others work best with a teacher that is strict and micromanaging. There is no one style of teaching to rule them all.

No matter your teaching methods, there are a few benchmark qualities that they should all possess in order to teach effectively. Here are some of the essential attributes that aspiring dancers should expect from their dance teachers:

Reputation, Education, Experience

Some of the best dance instructors have trained extensively in their art since early childhood. By the time they are in their 30’s, most of them have already received an extensive education at premier dance schools and universities, or have an established career dancing for dance groups and theater companies.

But a dance teacher’s educational background is sometimes not directly correlated to his or her knowledge in the art of dance. He or she should also have earned a good reputation among the dancing community. Being a member of a reputable dance organization or having certifications and achievements are also a huge plus.

Other Important Characteristics:

Patience

Teaching dance is grueling. Students enrolled in a dance class have varying degrees of skill, and as such, can absorb and learn material at different paces. There will always be students who will learn more slowly than their peers. Having to adjust the learning material to accommodate these students can be taxing for the teacher.

Patience is always a hallmark virtue of any good teacher. For a struggling student, a patient dance teacher can make or break his or her motivation to study the art.