IADMS New York 2002   [back to the Category]

Computerization of Dance Wellness Screening Data   [read the french version]

Author :   Gary Galbraith, MFA, BS & Al.

Computerization of Dance Wellness Screening Data


Gary Galbraith, MFA, BS
Karen Potter
Dance Program, Department of Theater Arts, Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Chad Fortun
Ohio Physical Therapy Clinic
Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Purpose: The purpose of the project was to design a computer program for use in Dance Wellness Screens. A Dance Wellness Screen, defined as a process where dancers are evaluated using various established physical assessments and dance technique assessments, is typically a lengthy and sometimes tedious event. Rotating or channeling dancers through the extensive battery of assessments is often a time consuming process of measuring, collecting data, and evaluating at each station.

Methods: Having directed Dance Screens for the past three years and participating in all aspects of the measuring, data collection and numeric calculations, the author has written a computer program using Microsoft Access to expedite the process of data collection, process of analysis and evaluation.

Analysis: A report complete with numeric and graphic output is generated for each subject to provide personalized results. Additionally, the report is written to provide suggested strengthening and/or stretching exercises as a result of the evaluations. Recommended protocols include photographs demonstrating the techniques as well as instructions for execution, number of repetitions and frequency are included.

Results: The report is an important aid to the dancer, dance teacher, training consultants and medical professionals in developing a personalized cross training program for the dancer. Where applicable, historical data is also included to help track changes.

Conclusions: Even though quantifiable data is analyzed, the program has also proven to be an aid in recording observations made with regard to dance technique considerations. Summary information is also produced for dance teachers and physical therapists to track changes amongst students as they continue through their dance-training program. This summary information also helps identify any conditions that may be present in more than one dancer that may provide dance technique teachers more information as to what is required in the technique class.