Course content

The modules Basic Ethnochoreology I-II provide students with an outline of the genres and dialect variation in dance and music found in traditional Norwegian folk dance, as seen in the larger context of cultural and dance history. Instruction will include lectures and student work with film and notation. Parallel variants from other countries will be included. The two modules are closely interrelated, and in order to obtain the complete picture, both are needed. Basic Ethnochoreology I provides an introduction to theory, scientific method and techniques, and the specific genre and dialect variation related to roundel and rural traditional dance. The students will choose a selection of traditional dances for their exams. Working with popular style and dance technique from film documentation is a central element. A few examples of folk music are included.

Learning outcome

The students will aquire an understanding of Norwegian folk dance from an ethnochoreological approach, along with expertise in dance analysis and an understanding of popular dance technique.

Learning methods and activities

Compulsory lectures and practical exercises.
Assessment based on a portfolio and a practical test.
The students will submit a portfolio of finished exercises, which will be assessed together at the end of the course, with a letter grade. Dance curriculum students will be assessed with a letter grade on a practical test. The portfolio counts 2/3 and the practical test 1/3. The portfolio will involve a set of terminology exercises to be completed at home, one set of dance-analysis exercises, and one discussion exercise that will be completed in discussion groups, with an individual answer completed at home. The portfolio’s three parts count equally in the assessment. Failure of one of the assignments (portfolio or practical test) means that the particular assignment will have to be retaken. Failing the portfolio assignment entails submitting the entire portfolio again.

Compulsory assignments

• Satisfactory participation in compulsory instruction

Required previous knowledge

Documented skills in dance.

The course has restricted admission.

Credit reductions