Teaching in its most basic form is the transferring of information from one individual to another. However, if one were only to assert their knowledge onto someone else without caring about how they went about doing so or without caring to acknowledge and understand the recipient, he or she may find the transfer quite unsuccessful. One might also fail in this transfer if he or she thinks that they have achieved an understanding far beyond that of their recipients.
Although I as the 'teacher,' may have important, useful information to share, I would like always to think of myself as equal to my students. I should like to identify myself as a guide, in which the transferring of information is open to all involved persons. It is through this dialogue and through these interactions that we are both given the opportunity to grow, learn, and discover together. I believe that everyone has something to offer and that by sharing our knowledge we are better able to become more well-rounded individuals.
In regards to dance, I feel no different. In fact, I consider this philosophy to hold true especially in dance, as it is a practice in which every individual must learn how to interpret movements within their own body and cannot rely on others to tell them how to do so. As the 'teacher', I can only assist the students in this process, provide them with the tools to do so, and encourage them in their efforts. I do not believe dance should be governed by what's right and wrong but rather by the process of discovery.
As the 'teacher' I will willingly invest in the lives of each student. To the extent that he or she may allow, I will take the time to know and to understand each individual. I will honor them as creative and intelligent persons and will encourage them to take risks and to explore new grounds. Finally, I will continue on in my own studies so that I might be able to consistently provide my students with new information. It is my ultimate desire that we, students and 'teacher' alike, are able to grow and learn together, as well as to always encourage and aid each other in whatever ways possible.