Introduction to Dance Equations in Costa Rica

Miranda is thrilled to be able to share Dance Equations internationally through her online workshops which feature her 2 books, classroom posters and resources, her MP3 musical collection, and over 50 instructional videos. However, what is most exciting to her is that Dance Equations is available for physical in-person workshops in Costa Rican schools.

The performance team is called DEKO (Dance Equations & Kompany) and is trained to teach Miranda’s program. Additionally, they will present Miranda’s choreography on stage; on March 3rd and 4th, 2023 at the CENAC cultural center and dance theatre. This performance will be available to school groups and the general public. The company will present Miranda’s signature math-dance piece titled DUST… Additionally, other theatrical contemporary dance pieces, work appropriate for young audiences.

The program is unique because it does not seek to change or alter the curriculum, instead, Miranda introduces dance into the classroom through movement improvisation and provides new teaching techniques for teachers. The teachers learn directly from her and DEKO through a professional development intensive. Teachers are given full access to the online platform and schools can decide if they would also like DEKO to work directly with their students. However, the strength of the program lies in the hands of the teacher. Miranda demonstrates how helpful dance is as a teaching tool, and how it aligns with successful teaching practices such as Rosenshine’s Principals of Instruction. Learning mathematics through dance allows students to visualize mathematics, to build a strong number sense along with good conceptual understanding. For the teacher is it beneficial because it requires less planning and little preparation. For the administration, dance is inexpensive, teachers do not require costly resources, simply move the desk and you have everything to need. Dance Equations provides a holistic learning experience because it relies on creative movement, a method anyone can use to teach. It is accessible so that students with disabilities can also explore movement in their own way. It is important to note that workshops can be taught in both English and Spanish, schools seeking more ways to include English instruction will find dance is also a useful tool in this regard.

Please join this event if you are interested in working with Dance Equations in any capacity. Join the team!