Action Research Paper
Instructional vs. Demonstration Methods: Measuring Student Engagement in Year 6 Dance
This action research paper investigates the comparative impact of instructional and demonstration-based teaching methods on student engagement within a Year 6 dance lesson. Recognising engagement as a multidimensional construct, the study employs a triangulated data collection approach — drawing on observational records, student self-assessment, and qualitative feedback , to build a rich and reliable picture of how pupils respond to each pedagogical method. Findings reveal meaningful differences in the nature and depth of engagement elicited by each approach, offering practical implications for dance educators seeking to optimise participation, motivation, and learning outcomes in primary settings. This paper contributes to the growing body of evidence-informed practice in dance education, advocating for reflective, data-driven decision-making in the primary classroom.
