Ubuntu as Dance Pedagogy in Uganda: Individuality, Community, and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning of Indigenous Dances

This book explores how Ubuntu philosophy shapes indigenous dance pedagogies in Uganda, highlighting the negotiation of inclusion, belonging, and agency through a creative interplay between individuality and communality. Pedagogies are seen as spaces for reflective thought and kinaesthetic practice to foster individual imagination and community innovations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 14 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the profound essence of Ubuntu, a philosophy that serves as the foundational framework for indigenous dance pedagogies within local communities in Uganda. By conducting a rigorous critical examination of the insights and practices of a select group of local dance teachers, the volume unveils the intricate ways in which issues of inclusion, belonging, and agency are intricately negotiated through a captivating interplay between individuality and communal identity. Through this insightful analysis, the book presents pedagogies as dynamic spaces where reflective thought and embodied practice converge, fostering the growth of individual imagination and the emergence of innovative community practices.

The author embarks on a thoughtful exploration of the cultural and historical contexts that shape the dance pedagogies practiced in Uganda. They shed light on the significance of traditional dance forms as means of preserving cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion. The book also highlights the challenges faced by local dance teachers in their efforts to integrate contemporary dance styles and techniques into their teaching, while still maintaining the authenticity and cultural relevance of traditional dance practices.

Through a series of engaging case studies, the author illustrates how local dance teachers navigate the complexities of inclusion, belonging, and agency within their pedagogical practices. They showcase how dance serves as a powerful medium for promoting social change, fostering empathy, and challenging dominant narratives. The book emphasizes the importance of community engagement and collaboration in the development and implementation of dance pedagogies, as well as the role of education in empowering individuals and communities to thrive.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of dance education and pedagogy. It provides a deep understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of indigenous dance pedagogies in Uganda, while also highlighting the creative and transformative power of dance as a means of promoting inclusion, belonging, and agency. The author's meticulous research and thoughtful analysis make this book an essential read for scholars, educators, and practitioners interested in the intersection of dance, culture, and social change.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811558467
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020