Abstract
ATAM is India’s first patented dance pedagogical tool, designed to create a form-neutral and style-neutral universal foundation for dance learning. Comprising Dials, Dial Holders, Dice, and Dice Holders, ATAM simplifies complex movement concepts into accessible, interactive, and engaging experiences. Developed especially for beginners, it enables logical understanding of Postures, Transition across Postures and Rhythm beyond the boundaries of specific dance traditions. Having received highly positive responses from educators and learners alike, ATAM represents a pioneering shift in how dance can be taught, understood, and experienced—as a universal movement language rather than a stylistic form. This presentation will introduce the conceptual framework, design, and pedagogical significance of ATAM as a transformative learning tool in dance education.
Bio
S. Jayachandran is a dance practitioner and Lecturer at the Centre for Exact Humanities, IIIT Hyderabad, focusing on the formal nature of Art. An Electronics Engineer turned artist, he previously worked with Wipro and later at Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai, India as Assistant Professor. Trained under eminent gurus including Smt. Leela Samson and Prof. C.V. Chandrasekhar holds a diploma degree, two bachelor’s degrees, multiple postgraduate degrees and a PhD in Dance from IIIT, Hyderabad. His research on universal dance fundamentals led to India’s first patented dance teaching tool. A performer, choreographer, and scholar, he is widely recognized for his lectures, writings, and studies on temple architecture and choreography.