Episode 9: Embodied Learning and Community Building with Dr. Judith Greer Essex

Embodied Learning and Community Building with Dr. Judith Greer EssexIn the ninth episode of our 30th-anniversary series, we hear from Professor Dr. Judith Greer Essex. A dedicated member of the EGS community, her connection to the institution began nearly three decades ago when she first arrived to complete her doctoral studies. She has since taught across both the Master's and Doctoral programs within the Arts, Health and Society Division.In this illuminating episode, listeners will explore:Dr. Essex’s passion for community building through the aesthetic experience, specifically utilizing dance and music to bring people together.The profound joy and healthy impact of guiding individuals with no background in the performative arts to collaboratively create meaningful work.How the division’s genuinely art-based approach makes its principles applicable across a wide array of fields—from education and psychology to community building and conflict transformation.The unique "experiential teaching" method at EGS, where learning happens by doing.The importance of "owning the information corporeally"—allowing students to embody what they learn rather than just memorizing a textbook.Join us for a fascinating discussion on the power of dance, community connection, and what it truly means to learn through the body.