In group class instruction you experience learning to dance within a group of students, often trading partners among them.  

The quality of group class instruction is as varied as the group class offerings themselves. Here are some things to consider when choosing a group class program:

• Is the class being taught to a particular level, i.e. beginner, intermediate, etc.?
• Does the class specify what dances and figures will be taught?
• Will the instructor rotate partners?
• Is the class size limited?

If a class is not specified for a particular learning level, the beginner student will feel overwhelmed, the experienced student will be bored, and the in-between students will feel neglected because all the instructor’s attention will go towards helping the beginners catch up and trying to come up with ways to challenge the experienced dancers. Not good!

Ideally, group classes are taught in courses and require students to begin at the onset. The course should have a curriculum with specific outcomes in mind. It should state the specific dance or dances that will be taught and the variations within each dance.

While many couples want to dance only with each other, it is extremely helpful in developing one’s lead/follow skills to practice with a variety of partners. This is one of the biggest benefits of group instruction. An experienced group class instructor will use a partner rotation system that will ensure fairness to everyone.