DEL Functional Anatomy
Course Opens November 2
Registration closes October 28
Asynchronous
Learn about the anatomy of moving bodies, exploring the musculoskeletal system in an embodied way through various movement explorations. Gain tools from the course to apply functional anatomy practices in your dance classroom.
Course Opens November 2
Registration closes October 28
DEL Functional Anatomy
Asynchronous (online)
1 year of access to all course materials
Grade Level(s)
K-12
Time to Complete
~12 Hours
Modules
6
Prerequisites
None
Course Content
In this six-week asynchronous course, students will be introduced to the basic principles affecting the anatomical structure of the human body.
Students will work to heighten understanding of the anatomy of moving bodies, including dynamic alignment and postural control, with laboratory applications for many movement practices. Students explore the musculoskeletal system and embodiment of functional anatomy explorations. They will learn anatomical names and terms that will inform their lives as dancers, dance educators, and humans.
Current functional anatomy research is applied to concepts of movement analysis, alignment assessment, and performance enhancement. Students will explore their own body’s potential and learn tools to apply functional anatomy practices in their dance classrooms.
Each asynchronous module will include the following components:
- Discover: Watch the video & read the slides to provide base/foundational information on the topic
- Deepen: Read the assignment to deepen understanding of content
- Dance: dance, embody, investigate, explore the content through movement prompt
- Dive in: Write reflection on application into personal movement practice and teaching practice
- Demonstrate Knowledge: Take a quiz to deepen understanding!
Students will also be asked to secure a copy of the required reading: Haas, J. G. (2025). Dance Anatomy 3rd edition. Champagne, IL: Human Kinetics.
Learning Objectives
Participants will…
- Identify the skeletal bones
- Explain the different types of muscle fibers and muscle activation
- Demonstrate knowledge of joint structure and actions
- Embody the course content in their own bodies
- Express ways in which the course content can apply to their teaching practice
Choose From Two Modes of Study
Independent Study courses offer students the freedom to learn at their own pace, allowing them to dedicate as much or as little time to the material as they choose.
- No set deadlines
- Full control over the timing and progression of your learning
- Best suited for those who prefer to study independently and autonomously
- Retain access to course materials for one year, providing ample opportunity to revisit and review content at your convenience
Facilitated Study courses offer a more structured and interactive learning experience, ideal for students who value consistent feedback, community engagement, and a clear course timeline.
- Submit weekly assignments, along with a final assignment
- Receive written feedback from facilitators
- Mid-course Zoom meeting where students can meet their cohort, engage with peers, and connect directly with the course facilitator for additional support and guidance
- May include discussion boards for peer interaction
- Designed for students who thrive in a guided, collaborative setting
- Approximately 3 hours of engagement per week
- All Facilitated Study courses are eligible for undergraduate credit through DEL’s partnership with SUNY Empire State University for a separate and additional fee
Discounts
- NYCDOE dance specialists get 50% off every DEL course.
- NYCDOE common branch teachers get 10% off every DEL course.
- NYCDOE Arnhold New Teachers get DEL courses free for their first and second year teaching in the DOE.
Email [email protected] for more information
Scholarships
Scholarships are available through 92NY.
Learn more about general 92NY scholarship information and applications.
Credits
Students may take this course in Facilitated Study format for SUNY Empire State University credit for a separate and additional fee, and will receive 4 undergraduate credits.
Educators can also receive New York State CTLE credits for completed DEL courses.
What's Inside Our Functional Anatomy Course
6 Units of Learning:
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Accordion Content
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Learning Platform
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Meet Your Instructors
Allegra Romita
Allegra Romita (MA, CMA, EdM, RYT) is co-creator of Functional Awareness: Anatomy in Action®. Allegra’s collaborative work with Nancy Romita includes publishing Functional Awareness: Anatomy in Action for Dancers and Functional Awareness and Yoga: An Anatomical Guide to the Body in Reflective Practice (Oxford University Press). She has presented workshops...