Darren Kinsman
Clark Memorial International High School
Darren was first exposed to using drama in the classroom while studying for his Bachelor of Education degree. He and the rest of his cohort were fortunate enough to be instructed by actor, playwright, and educator, Ilkay Silk. Subsequently, Darren had experience with drama as a student in a French immersion program in Quebec. In Japan, he regularly used role plays in his lessons before going on to help his high school students put on school plays, one of which he wrote himself. He later received drama training in Tokyo through his company and was subsequently asked to train other teachers using his methods. Darren is currently investigating innovative ways to teach drama online.
Sessions
Is Drama in the Classroom Always a Good Idea?
Drama in the classroom can be a powerful tool for EFL teachers. Its potential benefits include motivation, engagement, fluency, presentation skills, social skills, empathy, and self-confidence. However, because it takes place in a less structured learning environment where the teacher has less overt control over the students, and because some people may see it as non-educational, some may question if drama activities are appropriate in all EFL contexts. Success in most cases will require some degree of teacher training, thoughtful preparation, clear expectations, support from students and administration, and flexible lesson plans. The most consequential decision will center on if the teacher will use drama activities occasionally within existing classes or set up a dedicated drama class. To help secondary and post-secondary teachers decide if drama is suitable for them and their particular context, the presenter will discuss his own experience with drama as a language student and as a teacher responsible for organizing school plays and teaching a drama class. The presenter will also give practical advice on appropriate content, show a sample lesson plan, and demonstrate a drama activity with the participants. The presenter will also give examples of drama activities that can be done online.