In order to reach the variety of learners in our university classes,
different teaching strategies are recommended to increase the chances for
student success. Howard Gardner’s work on “Multiple Intelligences” has
made us aware that areas such as musical, kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal,
and spatial are often ignored. Several university educators across the
country are using innovative ideas in their classrooms to reach the diversity
of learners. This panel explores teaching strategies that offer alternative
ways of delivering course content in academic theatre classes. One of the
reasons why this discussion is much needed is because of the often perceived
great divide between academic and practical theatre. The opening paper
investigates the benefits of integrating practical and experiential approaches
to teaching academic theatre classes. The argument is grounded in Howard
Gardner’s theory of ‘Multiple Intelligences’ and suggests that using theatre
activities to teach theatre history and theory will likely increase the
chances of learning for the students. Following the more theoretical introductory
paper, the four panelists illustrate how they incorporate experiential
and performative approaches in their teaching of academic courses. After
the panelists have offered their perspectives the floor will be open for
discussion/debate on the value and challenges of using performative techniques
in academic theatre classes.
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