Implementing theatre techniques within the curriculum : a possible approach in integrated science

Abstract

The dissertation consists of three parts. In order to understand better how science can be taught through theatre, it is important to understand how people learn. Consequently the scientific aspect of learning processes will be reviewed. Part 1 will therefore focus on the learning processes and different types of memories that children have, since memory is the storage of any information acquired. This review does not include children with mental deficiencies. Brain activities and patterns will be discussed to see how they affect children and their reactions when faced with a new experience or with a similar one experienced before. The learning processes will be compared to those of the actor in training as there is much in common between the two. In addition certain exercises practised by the actor can be either used in class or modified for a classroom situation. The second chapter tackles theatrical techniques and their effectiveness when applied in science classes. It is important to point out that since these techniques are so versatile, they can easily be modified and integrated with other subjects as well. As Boal says, "It is not the place of the theatre to show the correct path, but only to offer the means by which all possible paths may be examined." Therefore, in this dissertation theatrical media will be used in order to operate knowledge in a different context, which in my case shall be applied to Integrated Science. The theatrical media tackled in this chapter are Puppetry, Storytelling, Mime, Games and Simulations. Their educational qualities will be discussed, as well as possibilities for their use in science education. Other pedagogies that are applied in school will be also examined in order to determine those that limit or on the contrary develop learning skills. The third part describes actual case-studies that occurred in Malta and Great Britain offering concrete examples for educators to understand better how theatre can be applied in science education. The studies consist of various role-plays, interactive puppet shows, different games and exercises.