YAP, Vincent Ryan O.

FODMA2
PETWODA

Reflective Journal 2

Now that we have gone through the steps of Cha-cha-cha, I found learning Cumbia easier
than if I were to learn it without any prior knowledge of dancing. I also find it considerably
enjoyable, albeit in the online setting. Based on what I have learned, Cumbia felt a bit similar to
Cha-cha-cha, although it is a bit harder for me. In comparison to the previous module, dancing
Cumbia was somehow quite faster which made it difficult to follow at times—especially with the
turns. The music for this module, at least the one used in the tutorial videos also seemed
confusing to me since I could not time the steps correctly to it. However, the difficulties in
learning may have been brought about by my absence during the first session, requiring me to
learn the initial steps on my own. On the contrary, I was actually able to do the remaining steps
well, with praises coming from the instructor. I just find connecting all the steps to perform an
entire sequence a bit challenging due to the pace of the movements.

With regards to the learning experience excluding the dancing itself, I would say that the
setting still hinders everyone’s learning experience and process, especially in subjects that
involve physical movement. Of course, with small screens, it was also hard to follow the steps
being demonstrated while also trying to observe yourself. Having to keep adjusting the camera
and/or the arrangement of the furnitures inside the house is also quite difficult. I definitely would
have preferred to take this class in person, just like any other subject. The comparative analysis
definitely helped me understand that even if I found some similarities between the dances in
terms of their movement, the technicalities and histories are what set them apart. Through that
activity, I was able to learn more about the influences of cultures and societies on the art that
people produce particularly in the dances. Overall, Cumbia was an enjoyable and challenging
experience for me. It is not all the time that we are given the opportunity to showcase our
individuality in P.E., and PETWODA allows us to do so.