THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOUR SIDED DRUM DANCE COURSE FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD MAJOR OF TONGREN UNIVERSITY IN GUIZHOU PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aims to design and implement a preschool education curriculum based on the theme of the "Four Drum Dances" at Tongren University, Guizhou Province. As a significant form of intangible cultural heritage, the Four Drum Dances embody a unique integration of rhythm, movement, and ethnic symbolism. Despite their cultural value, these traditional dances have seldom been incorporated into preschool education due to the absence of a well-defined pedagogical framework. To address this gap, the study employed the ADDIE instructional design model in conjunction with 21st-century teaching strategies and Tyler’s rationale-based teaching theory to develop a course specifically tailored for non-dance major students. A purposive sampling method was utilized to select 50 students. The effectiveness of the curriculum was assessed through systematic observation, participant feedback, and formal evaluation metrics. The findings demonstrate notable improvements in students’ academic performance, cultural literacy, and pedagogical competence. This research contributes to the field of teacher education by offering a replicable model for integrating traditional cultural elements into early childhood curricula, thereby fostering sustainable cultural preservation and enhancing the cultural responsiveness of future educators.

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