Most teachers teach dances rather than dancing, because it's easier.
But the focus on steps in dance teaching may be the biggest single obstacle to the learning of dancing well. Learning the pattern of the week is not the key to success. Being able to lead that move in a club is much more important. For the lady, being able to follow a weak leader is the mark of a good dancer. The dancer taught exact foot placement rather than following will end up being an elitist dance snob and be unable to dance with anyone who has learned in the different styles which DO exist and are taught in various parts of the country by very reputable instructors.