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OPDI-M31

Teaching Hip Hop Dance: Context, Culture and Curriculum

2 dancers on stage - one female and one male

May 19 to July 13, 2025

Professor:  Maria Daniel

Tuition: $365 member / $440 non-member

8 Weeks; 2 NDEO-Endorsed PDCs

Register Here

This course offers a dynamic exploration of Hip Hop Dance, inviting participants to delve into its various dimensions through the lenses of context, culture, and curriculum. You will acquire a holistic understanding of Hip Hop Dance, encompassing its historical roots, contextual significance, and varied influences, which are crucial for educators, researchers, and academics in dance studies. Moreover, we will delve into a spectrum of teaching strategies aimed at bolstering engagement, fostering creativity, and deepening comprehension of Hip Hop Dance, including mastering foundational techniques such as popping, locking, and breaking. You will learn to develop culturally responsive practices and exhibit sensitivity to the diverse perspectives within the expansive Hip Hop culture. This involves grappling with ethical considerations like cultural appropriation and misrepresentation, guiding students in making informed and respectful choices regarding movement, music, attire, and artistic expression within Hip Hop Dance curriculums.

Disclaimer: This course is designed for educators who actively teach—or plan to teach—a Hip Hop Dance class and are committed to incorporating Hip Hop culture and context into their curriculum. While you may be required to create videos incorporating Hip Hop Dance movement, this course does not teach you how to do the movements. We assume you already have a basic understanding of foundational movements and techniques in Hip Hop Dance. If you do not currently teach Hip Hop Dance or have no plans to do so, and have had no exposure to Hip Hop via in-person dance classes, this course may not be the best fit for you.

Book required:  None

Questions about this Course?  Email opdi@ndeo.org

Student Testimonials

"I now feel empowered to teach Hip Hop Dance correctly with movement and context and culture. I had fun creating flip videos and Canva assignments for a more hands on experience. I loved the interaction with Maria. I felt like she was very on top of it, always available and quick to respond with anything I needed."

 "I loved all the great reading materials supplied. I also loved the weekly zoom calls to touch base and discuss content. It really helped me feel connected to the instructor and clarify questions. This teacher is also so passionate and knowledgeable... it was inspiring."

"I have completely redone my title, course description, and curriculum objectives for my Hip Hop Dance class. This will allow me to create a more authentic and appropriate experience for my students moving into this school year. The resources and ideas shared in this class will help to expand my personal relationship and understanding of Hip Hop culture and allow me to be a better and more effective teacher of Hip Hop Dance."

"This ended up being different than I was expecting but it has been extremely useful in evaluating my current Hip Hop Dance curriculum to identify its strengths and weaknesses. Professor Daniel has structured the class in a way that allows for reflection and personal growth in the understanding of Hip Hop Dance and culture."

"One of the big things I learned in this course was how to connect National Core Standards and SEL elements to the way I already teach but had not fully understood how to integrate as a curriculum. Also, the level of research that María has put into this class is incredible! The constant push to utilize and cite many sources felt cumbersome at first, but then once I realized that by having this type of research-driven approach to discussing Hip Hop dance I was validating my thoughts while also validating the best ways to teach Hip Hop dance and demand better research by anyone around me, including students at all ages."

"This course challenged my beliefs about Hip Hop Dance and culture while providing me with resources to become a better teacher. Anyone who teaches Hip Hop Dance could benefit from the expertise of Professor Daniel and the personal reflection that this course requires."

Professor Bio

headshot of Maria Daniel, she is a black woman with black hair María Daniel is an accomplished dancer, choreographer, educator, author and attorney. She is a National Dance Foundation Partner and creator of the copyrighted Hip Hop Experience Dance Class (and Curriculum) which has been featured on CBS, NBC and in various states. She is the Founder and Artistic Director of iDance Ministry (dba iDance Experience) which serves culturally and economically diverse dancers who seek meaningful experiences in dance and mentoring. María Daniel advances Hip Hop Dance education in public schools in New Jersey and in New York City. María received 5 mayoral proclamations for her work through iDance and a 2023 Joint Resolution by the NJ Senate and Assembly (for her meritorious record of service, leadership, and commitment as a dance educator who “leverages the creative arts to benefit those impacted by mental health issues, addiction, and … disabilities.” In addition to teaching dance and providing choreography, she coordinates National Dance Week programs, hosts dance workshops, coordinates dancer retreats and hosts teacher webinars. Her most personal Project is called “BrOKen” and it uses dance and visual art to explore mental health, disabilities and addiction while also depicting hope and a path to healing. María Daniel promotes equitable access to dance experiences for historically excluded/marginalized populations. She has received a 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Volunteer Service Award, a 2023 Professional Business Woman of the Year Award (NANBPWC), a Director’s Award (from Dance the World Disney) and an Outstanding Director Award (from Dance Ministry Magazine).

National Dance Education Organization (NDEO)

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