Final answer:
Social dances like gumboot dancing and Steppin' are important cultural phenomena that promote cultural sensitivity when taught in classrooms. They connect students to historical and societal contexts and help them appreciate cultural diversity through performing arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cultural Sensitivity through Dance
Taught experientially from one generation to the next, social dance acts as a conduit for transmitting cultural phenomenon. Learning about gumboot dancing and Steppin' in the classroom has significant cultural and educational implications. These dance styles serve not only as a creative medium for the expression of historical and aesthetic values but also as a way to promote cultural sensitivity among students. By engaging with these art forms, young people gain an appreciation for the beauty of different cultures and their arts.
Gumboot dancing, having its origins in the mines of South Africa, evolved as a form of expression amongst workers from various ethnic backgrounds. It has become a symbol of unity and resilience against racial discrimination. Steppin', closely related in its historical context and aesthetic, shares similar roots in the African American community. Both forms showcase the positive outcomes of cultural diversity and lend themselves to fostering cultural understanding.
In the classroom setting, these dance styles can be effective tools for exploring cultural diversity. Instructors can demonstrate culturally responsive teaching by incorporating culturally diverse music and dance, thus allowing students to connect with their roots and develop a deeper understanding of different communities. Ultimately, this instruction aims to create culturally sensitive individuals who value and respect cultural differences.