Let the children dance: The effects of music, dance, movement and creative arts language programs in a migrant and refugee transition class

A School of Education Seminar presented on 7 August, 2019 by Dr Marg Rogers

The creative arts have long been heralded as an excellent vehicle for effective, deep and multifaceted language learning in children. This paper explores the effects of these practices within a transition class in a low socio-economic primary school environment with 4-5 year olds. These children had moved into the class from a playgroup environment to prepare for formal schooling six months early because of perceived language problems due to their migrant and refugee backgrounds. Using an auto-ethnographic approach, I explore and evaluate the learning and progress of the children as they grapple with English as an Additional Language. I discuss their reactions to these specialist lessons and comments as well as those of their educators and the program director. The presentation gives a useful account of lessons learned and effective ways to value and incorporate specialist educators within the early childhood environment where early intervention strategies are required.

Presentation