« It is said | Main | Tango Cups »

August 17, 2007

Teaching Guidelines

guidelines for teachers at tango colorado classes

It is interesting to speculate on the motivations and rationale behind these guidelines. I infer that these classes are aimed at newcomers to tango, and it seems that they want to get people off to a good start in dancing, and to set the tone for a positive relationship with the Tango Colorado organization.

Some rules must be a reaction to the bad results of specific teaching methods and behavior.

Synopsis:

  • Start and end on time.
  • Stick to good, standard tango music
  • Announce your other classes at the end.
  • Have students fill out an evaluation form
  • End class with a dance demonstration of material presented
  • Teach line of dance
  • Do NOT teach a pattern that begins with a backstep against the line of dance
  • Do not teach sacadas, boleos, gaunchos (sic) or leg wraps
  • Teach balance and staying on axis
  • Explain "the different forms of embrace".
  • Teach leaders to be gentle
  • Never criticize or embarrass a student
  • "Do not criticize other teachers. Do NOT say your way is the only way."
  • Do not force people into close embrace. "We have lost many new people over this one issue."

The ethics section ends with some pretty specific rules about sexual propriety. I guess they have had some problems with this before.

  • This is a sensuous and passionate dance. It is NOT a sexual ritual. Be very, very careful in your use of language and sexual innuendos. As an example, use the word, "chest,” not “breast.” Avoid overtly sexual moves. As a TC teacher, you represent us more than any other influence on students. Please respect the trust students give you.

  • Avoid dating your students or “coming on” to them. Sure, you might be attracted but wait for a few months until you know that an attraction is mutual and that the person is single if you date.

  • Students will also “come on” to teachers. This becomes a moral as well as an ethical issue. Do not respond, even if they flash you in the parking lot. As a person of authority, it is inappropriate, regardless of how strongly they insist.

Posted by joegrohens at August 17, 2007 02:28 PM

Comments

Post a comment

Thanks for signing in, . Now you can comment. (sign out)

(If you haven't left a comment here before, you may need to be approved by the site owner before your comment will appear. Until then, it won't appear on the entry. Thanks for waiting.)


Remember me?