Project Dancing Feat: Evaluation Research Report

This 22-page document summarises research conducted by Committed Communities Development Trust (CCDT), one of the two collaborating partners in the Mumbai, India Dancing Feat (DF) initiative. CCDT, together with Shiamak Davar Institute for the Performing Arts (SDIPA), are using the creative medium of dance as a therapeutic communication tool to enhance the receptivity of high-risk, vulnerable children (ages 6-18) to life skills education (LSE) and counselling sessions that explore reproductive and sexual health, growing up, relationships, gender, reduced vulnerabilities and HIV risk behaviours. The goal of DF is to enhance participants' ability respond effectively to situations that place them at risk of HIV/AIDS, as well as to cope with emotions surrounding the losses and discrimination that they may experience due to the presence of the disease in their lives.

A baseline study was undertaken in 2001 to assess the existing level of HIV knowledge among potential programme participants and to help plan and implement interventions. A sample of 229 children and youth, with 50 children acting as part of a control group, participated. In brief, the analysis found that, despite the prevalence of some significant misconceptions, the aggregate sample did not display negative attitudes towards HIV+ individuals (only 18.3% did). Although the level of prejudice was low, many children believed that casual contact or living with a person who is HIV+ would put them at risk to HIV/AIDS. Knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS was apparent, but more information to clear up myths and misconceptions was found to be needed. A key concern was the disparity in knowledge between males and females; females were less knowledgeable on HIV/AIDS then males, across all age groups.

To evaluate DF's outcomes, and participants' and stakeholders' perspectives on the effectiveness of the initiative, the research team designed a questionnaire to conduct with the children; separate guidelines were developed for interviews with children and stakeholders. Written consent forms were obtained from participants, and each member of the research team signed a confidentiality agreement. The questionnaires were administered in Hindi by the counsellors on a one-on-one basis with 78 children who had been in DF from the inception of the project. Stakeholders such as non-governmental organisation (NGO) directors and coordinators, dance instructors, counsellors, and DF core staff were interviewed by two members of the research team.

Here is a brief synopsis of major findings, corresponding to the 3 core programme components:

Life Skills Education (LSE):

• Knowledge: Most respondents (86%) replied that they had learned "a lot" from the NGO coordinators. When further probed as to what they learned, respondents indicated that LSE "has helped them in terms of their own bodies - they know about menstruation, cleanliness, hygiene, etc. They also know how to protect themselves from diseases like HIV/AIDS and have given others the information as well. They have learned to respect themselves and others - by not hitting, helping, listening, etc. There seems to be a greater awareness - they know about sexual abuse and what to do in a vulnerable situation." About 82% indicate that they have learned about sexual intercourse through LSE.
• Decision-making skills: 82% of the children felt they could make better decisions as a result of the LSE. Of those who have learned about sexual intercourse, about 49% said that what they have learned has had an effect on their decision to engage in sexual intercourse.
• Action: Some have actively taken steps to prevent themselves from being infected with HIV - tell the barber to change blades, plan to get tested before marriage, tell the doctor to use clean needles, etc. For 56% of the respondents, there has been a situation in which they have done something differently because of what they have learned in LSE.
• Assessment of the DF strategy: About 50% feel the puppets, dramas, stories, and role-plays have helped "a lot" in understanding how to take action in various crisis situations, such as by standing up for what they believe and not allowing certain behaviours from other people as well. One child said, “I could relate from a puppet because it use to happen someone at home used to force themselves on me. I then went and spoke to my mother. I learnt that I should speak to my mother if something like this happens.”

Counselling - About 77% of respondents felt that the counselling sessions have helped them in their lives; about 69% felt they could express themselves better after the interactive group sessions. Many of them explained that at first they never thought about what they were feeling and felt out of control, but "are now able to understand it, control it, and take better action" as a result of the opportunity to share their emotions within a group of peers and staff they can trust.

Dance - Dance was found to be the "most fun" component for children participating in DF, while the LSE and counselling components were found to impart more knowledge. About 97% of children said they enjoy participating in the classes, where they "dance, meditate/relax, cool down, stretch, have sessions, and play games". Furthermore, "Stakeholders believe that the children have become more confident, more physically aware, have increased their self-esteem, feel a sense of achievement from learning and performing a dance, and are more united as a group. Dance also gives them the opportunity to channel their energy and stay healthy and fit." To cite an assessment of one particular component of the dance programme: "stage opportunities for the children were organized to increase confidence, sense of achievement, and sense of pride in parents. Having performances and presentations serves as an incentive for the children and gives them something to look forward to. In addition, it has increased the visibility of the partner organizations and NGOs as they have learned to deal with the media, have been able to raises funds, and showcase the success of the project. The presentations provide 'entertainment education.' While the shows are entertaining and fun, the theme-based dances and the show itself often provide important messages that raise awareness, increase knowledge, create favorable attitudes, and motivate people to take socially responsible actions."

According to the report, "the staff has seen changes in the children's outlook, behavior, actions, and personality as a result of Dancing Feat. Although many changes will not manifest themselves until years from now, some changes are already apparent. Children are beginning to think about their future and what they aspire to be, are teaching others information, and more expressive and communicate their feelings, and exude confidence and self-esteem."

Ten project-specific recommendations are detailed here - to cite only one: "The project should continue to reach out to more children throughout Mumbai, possibly building partnerships with other NGOs and communities. In addition, the children's families/communities should be engaged so that the project can be more effective and a supportive environment is created for the children." A Conclusion section and Appendix, which includes even more extensive qualitative data (voices of participants and stakeholders) than those shared throughout the report, follows.

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