programs

Africa

The countries and regions of Africa, once home to distinctive medieval empires, are remarkable for their rich and diverse cultures. The skills, labor, and artistic and cultural traditions of African peoples have shaped the development of other nations for centuries, particularly through the African Diaspora. Primary Source's professional development programs aim to portray the countries accurately, focusing on their individual histories as well as the challenges people face in the present. Current issues such as post-colonial governance, emerging democratic practices, regional conflicts, and widespread disease are among the topics our seminars feature.

Seminars 2011-2012

World Beat: Exploring Cultures through Music and Dance

Three-Day Seminar Series
Course Dates: January 25, February 15, March 7, 2012
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Primary Source
PDPs/Credits: 27 PDPs; 1 graduate credit
Fee: Partnership educators—no cost other than fee for 1 graduate credit; Non-partnership educators—$300 plus fee for 1 graduate credit

Music and dance are both local and global, reflecting aspects of particular cultures while connecting people across continents and the world. In these three sessions, a variety of West African, South Asian, and Brazilian music cultures will be explored. Teachers will become familiar with a selection of sounds, instruments, dances, playing styles, and ideas from these localities with the aim of enriching their teaching. The course will include demonstrations by musicians and group dancing. Workshops will highlight ways in which teachers can incorporate music and dance into their broader curriculum.

Open to all K-12 educators.

Course Topics
Day 1: West African Sounds and Movements
Day 2: South Asian Sounds and Movements
Day 3: Brazilian Sounds and Movements

Selected Presenters: Matthew Allen, Wheaton College


The registration deadline was Wednesday, September 28, 2011. Limited seats are still available in some programs. To register contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .