Can theatre help with academic excellence? Research says it does. Performing acts rekindles team spirit and coordination skills amongst students. Watching a theatre live and upfront can work wonders on students’ academic endeavors, social perspectives and tolerance level. As per research conducted by American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE), students who take keen interests in theatre has higher school attendance. Benefits of theatre education statistics have shown how global educational institutions are fast embracing theatre based education system.
Wondering how theatre can be helpful?
- Imagination− An amusing theatre performance is simply not just about mind−blowing entertainment but developing imagination skills. Studies have shown that students who have been to creative sessions like theatre are less likely to flunk, score low grades, or discontinue studies. Theatre helps children to think themselves through complex narratives and symbols and nurture in the long−run.
- Cognitive Skills− Cognitive development constitutes emotional intelligence, ability to think and communicate, interpret complex texts, and coordinating movements and is significant to the well−being of a child. The children acquire means to experiment and successfully formulate ideas/strategies. From an early age, the students become sensitive to aesthetic beauty and creatively inclined towards different activities.
- Dissemination of Information− The art of expression could be improved once the students gain steady access to theatre. Via workshops and learning they could explore different ways of communication and the nuances of language. Students could be taught the basics of articulation once they master the art of communication.
- Social Awareness− If introduced to theatre at the formative age, students could be more aware and empathetic towards society. They develop a tendency to come up with practical solutions and suggestions to combat social evils. While with technological advancements students remain imbibed into an alternative or virtual reality, theatre could help them think and reflect on the many vices plaguing social development.
How can schools include art and theatre into curriculum?
What is theatre in education? Learning needs to step beyond the classroom walls to inculcate development programs and active learning modules. Theatre is a classic example which will provide students with the impetus to perform better.
Theatre Education− An extensive theatre study should include discussion, writing, and activities designed to enhance students’ comprehensibility. Drama could be taught in regard to relevant subjects such as English, History, and Sociology. Storytelling, pantomime, puppetry, and role−playing could be fundamental to the study.
Drama Classes− This could include a more practical demonstration of stage and theatre within the context of society. Technical concepts could be conveyed well once the students are actively engaged in drama classes at least once a week. It would help students with the confidence to engage, interact, and discuss ideas.
Theatre Visits− Live theatre experience has high educational benefits and keep kids motivated throughout their curriculum. Additionally, it provides a clear exhibition of the classroom learning and helps students relate to their course syllabi better.
Theatre has been affirmed as an educative and informative measure capable of reaching out by veracity of its liveliness and immediacy. Within the context of academia, theatre can enhance students’ academic performance and help in widening their understanding.