The Impact of a Weekend Dance Program on Social-Emotional Learning Among Young Children

Authors

  • Mancheng Lei Macau China Society of Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, Macau, China
  • Siman Lei Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Macau, China
  • Tanjian Liang Sport and Movement Studies, Central Washington University, United States
  • Yan Wang Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Macau, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/jiep.v6i1.5324

Abstract

[Abstract] Social and emotional learning (SEL) certainly has a positive impact on promoting children’s wellbeing. However, there is limited literature on engagement in dance and movement among children. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the impact on the SEL of children after a weekend dance program.

 

METHOD: We performed a quasi-experimental controlled trial. It was comprised of 60 children aged 5-6 in Fujian Province. 30 participated in the integrated dance program, while 30 were in the control group. The dance programs taught by professional instructors consisted of 12 weekly lessons (50-minute per lesson). The participants completed the pre- and post-measurements in terms of Social-Emotional and Character Development Scale (SECDS) and Preschooler Gross Motor Quality Scale (PGMQS). Repeated-measures ANOVA tests were taken to determine the impact of the integrated dance program on children’s social-emotional learning and motor skills.

 

RESULTS: A significant difference is found in the changes between the two groups, including social-emotional behavior and motor skill quality of underlying program principles for children who participated the integrated dance program compared with the control groups.

 

CONCLUSION: These results provide preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of an integrated dance program associated with SEL among young children and may add to existing literature. We suggest conducting more research in the future to promote the benefits of after-school dance programs.

Keywords:

Dance program; Culture and art center; Young children; Social-emotional learning; Motor skills

References

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How to Cite

Lei, M., Lei, S., Liang, T., & Wang, Y. (2023). The Impact of a Weekend Dance Program on Social-Emotional Learning Among Young Children. Journal of International Education and Practice, 6(1), 10–18. https://doi.org/10.30564/jiep.v6i1.5324

Issue

Vol. 6 , Iss. 1 (June 2023): Special Issue 1

Article Type

Articles