Overview

Course Description: A Sensory Approach to Teaching Dance to Students with Disabilities is inspired by the principles of wholeness and access. All of our students are whole people and deserve full access to dance as an expressive art form. A Sensory Approach begins with foundational information on cultural/historical beliefs about disability, disability justice, and disability legislation. The course explores the seven senses as entry points to designing inclusive dance learning activities for diverse students. Strategies shared can be applied in various dance sectors, including K-12 public and private education, private studios and community dance spaces. The Sensory Approach informs dance pedagogy, and course participants will design dance lessons and activities with the goal of engaging students with a range of access needs.

Learning Objectives: Students will …

1. Examine historical models of disability.
2. Investigate the history of disability justice and disability legislation and their impact on dance education.
3. Learn about disability classifications and characteristics.
4. Examine best practices in dance education for students with disabilities.
5. Explore the use of the seven senses as access points for dance learners.
6. Analyze sensory-based teaching strategies.
7. Design and apply selected strategies to their teaching practice that provide access to diverse dance students.
8. Reflect on the application of these strategies.

Course Format: Asynchronous – All course material online! Students receive access to all course materials for 1 Year.

Prerequisites: None

Study Options: Independent Study ($190) or Facilitated Study ($380)

Independent Study – Cost: $190

Independent Study courses offer students the freedom to learn at their own pace, allowing them to dedicate as much or as little time to the material as they choose. With no set deadlines, students have full control over the timing and progression of their learning. This format is best suited for those who prefer to study independently and autonomously. Students will retain access to course materials for one year, providing ample opportunity to revisit and review content at their convenience.

Facilitated Study – Cost: $380

Facilitated Study courses offer a more structured and interactive learning experience, ideal for students who value consistent feedback, community engagement, and a clear course timeline. Students will submit weekly assignments, along with a final assignment, and receive written feedback from facilitators. Courses may include discussion boards for peer interaction and all feature a mid-course Zoom meeting where students can meet their cohort, engage with peers, and connect directly with the course facilitator for additional support and guidance. Designed for students who thrive in a guided, collaborative setting, this format requires approximately 3 hours of engagement per week. Additionally, all Facilitated Study courses are eligible for undergraduate credit through DEL’s partnership with SUNY Empire State University for a separate and additional fee. Facilitated Study Course Dates: June 22 – August 2, 2026, with final assignments due August 16, 2026.

Credits:

Students may take this course for SUNY Empire State University credit for a separate and additional fee, and will receive 4 undergraduate credits.

Educators can also receive New York State CTLE credits for completed DEL courses.

Discounts:

• NYCDOE dance specialists get 50% off every DEL course.
• NYCDOE common branch teachers get 10% off every DEL course.
• NYCDOE Arnhold New Teachers get DEL courses free for their first and second year teaching in the DOE.

Scholarships: Scholarships are available through 92NY. General 92NY scholarship information and applications.

Must register by Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out.

Photo by Cherylynn Tsushima for Nel Shelby Productions.